Alabama Basketball Injury Update: Will Wrightsell, Holloway, and Bristow Play vs. St. John’s at Madison Square Garden?

Alabama basketball fans are closely watching the health of guards Latrell Wrightsell Jr. and Aden Holloway ahead of the Crimson Tide’s matchup against St. John’s at Madison Square Garden on Saturday morning. Both players participated in practice this week, but their availability remains uncertain as Alabama head coach Nate Oats evaluates their progress before tipoff.

Oats confirmed Friday that Wrightsell and Holloway were active during practice but noted that the team did not go “hard.” Their final status will depend on how each responds to the workout during Saturday’s morning shootaround. Meanwhile, sophomore forward Keitenn Bristow is very doubtful for the game and did not practice at all, according to Oats.

Key Details on the Alabama Basketball Injury Update

Alabama opened its 2025-26 season with a commanding 91-62 win over North Dakota despite being without Wrightsell, Holloway, and Bristow. Freshman guard Labaron Philon led the way with 22 points, while Houston Mallette contributed 15 in the backcourt. The team’s guard depth was on full display, but the absence of two of its best shooters could be felt against a tougher opponent like St. John’s.

Latrell Wrightsell Jr., who has battled injuries throughout his Alabama career, is recovering from a finger issue that sidelined him in the season opener. Aden Holloway, one of Alabama’s most accurate perimeter shooters, is nursing a wrist injury but appears to be trending toward a possible return. Holloway averaged 11.4 points per game last season and shot an impressive 41 percent from three-point range, making him a key offensive weapon for the Tide.

As for Keitenn Bristow, the sophomore transfer remains out and is expected to be re-evaluated next week. “We’ll see what he’s like next week,” Oats said. “He didn’t participate in practice today.” Bristow’s absence limits Alabama’s forward rotation, though the team’s guard-heavy lineup has carried the load so far.

Saturday’s early game at Madison Square Garden will test Alabama’s depth again. If both Wrightsell and Holloway are cleared, their return could provide a major offensive boost and add much-needed shooting balance to complement Philon’s playmaking ability.

How Alabama’s Rotation Could Shift Against St. John’s

If Wrightsell and Holloway return, Oats may have the flexibility to stretch the floor against a St. John’s team known for its defensive pressure. Their shooting could open space for drives and create better spacing in transition, a key part of Alabama’s uptempo system.

However, if either guard remains sidelined, Philon and Mallette will continue to carry the scoring load. Oats could also rely more on wing players to absorb minutes and maintain defensive intensity. The return of at least one of the injured guards would significantly improve Alabama’s offensive rhythm heading into a challenging non-conference stretch.

With St. John’s hosting the game at Madison Square Garden, Alabama’s ability to adapt to injuries and maintain offensive efficiency will be critical. The Alabama Basketball Injury Update offers cautious optimism, but the final word on Wrightsell, Holloway, and Bristow will come just before tipoff.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Will Latrell Wrightsell Jr. play against St. John’s?

Wrightsell practiced with the team and is being monitored. His final status will be decided before the game based on how he feels Saturday morning.

Q2: What is Aden Holloway’s injury status?

Holloway is recovering from a wrist injury. He participated in team drills and could return if he shows no soreness before the game.

Q3: Is Keitenn Bristow playing against St. John’s?

Bristow is very doubtful, as confirmed by Nate Oats. He will likely be re-evaluated next week before returning to practice.

Q4: Who led Alabama in their season opener?

Freshman guard Labaron Philon led all scorers with 22 points, while Houston Mallette added 15 in Alabama’s 91-62 win over North Dakota.

Q5: When is Alabama’s next game after St. John’s?

Alabama will continue its non-conference schedule following the St. John’s game, with the next matchup expected to be announced on the team’s official schedule soon.