Alabama basketball’s five possible transfer portal targets for the next summer

Alabama basketball is coming off another strong season under head coach Nate Oats, but with key departures expected, the Crimson Tide will be active in the transfer portal to reload their roster for another deep run next year. Oats has built his program on fast-paced, three-point-heavy basketball, and finding the right pieces in the portal will be crucial to maintaining Alabama’s success.

As the transfer portal continues to reshape college basketball, Alabama has emerged as a premier destination for top-tier transfers. The Crimson Tide’s style of play, NBA development pipeline, and competitive standing in the SEC make them an attractive option for players looking to make an immediate impact. With a few holes to fill, Alabama will likely pursue some of the top names available in the portal this offseason.

Here are five potential transfer portal targets Alabama could pursue:

1. Hunter Sallis – Wake Forest, Guard

Hunter Sallis, a former five-star recruit, has developed into a dynamic scorer and playmaker at Wake Forest. The 6-foot-5 guard averaged over 17 points per game last season and has shown the ability to score at all three levels. He was an elite perimeter defender and an efficient shooter, making him a perfect fit for Alabama’s up-tempo offense.

Sallis originally started his career at Gonzaga before transferring to Wake Forest, where he took on a much larger role. His athleticism, size, and scoring ability would make him an ideal addition to the Crimson Tide’s backcourt, especially if they lose key guards to the NBA Draft. Oats values versatile guards who can push the pace and shoot the ball, and Sallis checks all the boxes. If Alabama can land him, he could immediately step into a starting role and provide a huge offensive boost.

2. Ryan Kalkbrenner – Creighton, Center

One of the biggest needs for Alabama this offseason is a dominant interior presence, and Ryan Kalkbrenner would be a game-changing addition. The 7-foot-1 center has been one of the best shot-blockers in college basketball, anchoring Creighton’s defense for the past few seasons.

Alabama struggled at times against elite big men in the SEC, and adding a rim protector like Kalkbrenner would instantly improve their defense. He’s also an efficient scorer in the paint and a strong rebounder, making him an ideal fit for the Crimson Tide’s frontcourt. If Alabama wants to shore up its defense while maintaining its offensive firepower, landing a veteran big like Kalkbrenner should be a top priority.

3. Aaron Estrada – Alabama, Guard (Possible Returnee)

Aaron Estrada transferred to Alabama last offseason and had a strong season, but with another year of eligibility remaining, he could explore his options. However, there’s also a possibility he stays in Tuscaloosa if he doesn’t see a clear path to the NBA.

If Estrada does enter the portal, Alabama should do everything possible to convince him to return. The 6-foot-3 guard was one of the team’s most reliable playmakers, averaging double figures while also facilitating the offense. His veteran leadership and experience in Oats’ system would be invaluable, and keeping him in Tuscaloosa could prevent Alabama from having to completely rebuild its backcourt.

4. Johnny Furphy – Kansas, Forward

If Alabama is looking for a dynamic wing player with upside, Johnny Furphy could be an intriguing option. The 6-foot-9 forward from Kansas showed flashes of brilliance in his freshman season, proving he can be a high-level scorer and rebounder.

Furphy has the size, length, and athleticism to fit perfectly into Alabama’s system. He runs the floor well, can knock down outside shots, and is a strong rebounder for his position. With Oats prioritizing versatility and shooting, Furphy could step into a significant role right away and provide Alabama with a high-upside forward to build around.

5. Kadary Richmond – Seton Hall, Guard

Kadary Richmond is another guard who could help Alabama significantly. The 6-foot-6 Seton Hall standout is a physical, defensive-minded playmaker who can guard multiple positions. He’s not a high-volume shooter, but he’s an elite slasher and distributor, which would complement Alabama’s shooters well.

Richmond averaged 15.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game last season, showing his ability to impact the game in multiple ways. His length and defensive instincts would make Alabama better on that end of the floor, and his playmaking would allow him to fit seamlessly into Oats’ system. If Alabama wants to add a versatile two-way guard, Richmond would be a perfect target.

Alabama will be aggressive in the transfer portal as it looks to reload for another run at an SEC title and a deep NCAA Tournament push. With key players likely departing, Nate Oats has clear needs to address—particularly at guard and in the frontcourt.

These five players would all bring different skills to the table, but each would fit well in Alabama’s system. Whether it’s adding a defensive anchor like Ryan Kalkbrenner, a dynamic guard like Hunter Sallis, or a high-upside wing like Johnny Furphy, the Crimson Tide have plenty of options.

With the way the transfer portal has reshaped college basketball, Alabama’s offseason moves could determine just how competitive they’ll be next season. If Oats and his staff can land a few of these high-profile transfers, Alabama could be right back in the mix as one of the top teams in the SEC and a legitimate Final Four contender.