Keitenn Bristow, Collin Onyejiaka injury updates: Nate Oats updates status of two Alabama players

Alabama is fresh off a massive win over St. John’s but instantly moves on to a just as big matchup. The No. 2-ranked Purdue Boilermakers come to Tuscaloosa in what should be another classic. Unfortunately, Crimson Tide head coach Nate Oats reported on a few injuries beforehand.

“Nate Oats says Collins Onyejiaka will be out ‘indefinitely’ due to a medical condition,” Charlie Potter of On3 | Rivals’ BOL said via X. “Keitenn Bristow is ‘highly doubtful’ to play against Purdue.”

Bristow transferred in this season after previously being at Tarleton State. He has yet to make his Alabama debut due to the injury. Looks like fans will have to wait even longer to see Bristow out there.

As for Onyejiaka, some valuable minutes were earned during the St. John’s game. Alabama got into foul trouble with both its bigs, almost forcing Oats to put the true freshman out there in the second half. He did not put together any stats beneficial to Alabama, though, instead fouling twice.

Oats did not reveal the exact issue with Onyejiaka. Based on the term “indefinitely” being used, it might be some time before he gets back on the court.

Even with those two out, depth is not going to be an issue for Alabama. Oats did a nice job of bringing back talent while making solid additions through the NCAA transfer portal and high school recruiting ranks. He will still walk into Coleman Coliseum feeling confident in his team vs. Purdue.

Nate Oats looking for production from the Alabama centers

Onyejiaka might be down the pecking order in the rotation but being available still provides cover for Oats. So, with him out, the head coach emphasized the importance of getting production from his other two centers.

“Aiden (Sherrell) and Noah (Williamson) really need to give us good minutes at the five spot,” Oats said. “… They were tough against St. John’s, but we’ve got to get some production.”

Sherell scored nine points in the St. John’s game, making four of his nine field goal attempts. Purdue does have to respect his ability behind the three-point line, helping Alabama space the court. It’s the fouls that Oats needs to go down to keep him in the game.

Similar things can be said of Williamson, minus the scoring. He did not get on the board there but did secure three rebounds and even blocked a shot. Oats wants to see more moving forward.