NEWS FLASH: Contract extension in Alabama….
Wrightsell averaged 8.9 points and 3.0 rebounds across 23.7 minutes per game. He started 12 games, 11 of which came down the stretch of conference play and the postseason. Wrightsell was a crucial part of UA’s spacing in its four-guard lineup. Alabama was 10-0 when Wrightsell scored 10-plus points.
One of Wrightsell’s best performances came in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament. Playing Charleston, Wrightsell ended a team shooting slump with five 3s, finally taking the open shots Oats had pressed him to launch all season. Though Wrightsell was sidelined for the bulk of the Tide’s Final Four run.
Against Grand Canyon on March 24, Wrightsell fell to the ground on a block attempt and aggravated a head injury that had kept him out of SEC play heading into the conference tournament. He traveled with UA to Los Angeles and eventually Phoenix. He scored six points in 31 minutes against UConn.
Wrightsell’s return gives UA at least one confirmed starter from its previous lineup. Nick Pringle and Rylan Griffen are transferring. Mark Sears has declared for the NBA Draft while maintaining his eligibility. Fans are still awaiting Grant Nelson’s decision. Wrightsell is a plug-and-play wing who can elevate himself to a top scorer in the SEC with a full season in the starting lineup.
