College basketball insider provides scouting report on Alabama basketball newcomers

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Alabama has some fresh faces on its men’s basketball roster this year, and with the season just a few weeks away, some are making quite an impression. Stadium analyst Jeff Goodman spoke with head coach Nate Oats on Friday and shared his scouting report — including a potential starter.

Three transfers are among the six newcomers for Nate Oats’ group, headlined by freshman Brandon Miller. Miller was a five-star recruit and the No. 14 player in the nation from the class of 2022, according to the On3 Consensus, a complete and equally weighted industry-generated average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. Based on what Oats has seen in practice, the Antioch, Tennessee native is living up to the billing.

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“Alabama coach Nate Oats raving to me about the versatility of heralded freshman Brandon Miller,” Goodman wrote. “Says he can use him offensively in a similar manner as Herb Jones, having the ball in his hands a good amount as a playmaker.

“‘Brandon is every bit as good as advertised,’ Oats said.”

Miller’s role on offense will include his ability as a perimeter shooter. However, he won’t be alone. Ohio transfer Mark Sears is another name to watch this year, Goodman said, after he shot 40.8% from three-point territory last season. St. Bonaventure transfer Dom Welch is another name to watch outside, as well.

Miller isn’t the only freshman opening eyes, though. Noah Clowney — a four-star recruit, per the On3 Consensus — could be a potential starter for Oats’ group, Goodman said. His physical attributes could help separate him from the rest of the group.

“Oats also said that another freshman, Noah Clowney, has been terrific in practice thus far,” Goodman wrote. “6-10, super-athletic, blocks shots, can switch on defense and can cover up for others mistakes due to his length and athleticism. Clowney could wind up starting.”

Alabama will start the 2022-23 season Nov. 7 against Longwood.