"I kind of got sold a dream by my coach": Alabama's latest recruit Aden Holloway takes a subtle shot at Auburn HC Bruce Pearl amid transfer decision

Aden Holloway takes a subtle shot at Auburn HC Bruce Pearl
Aden Holloway takes a subtle shot at Auburn HC Bruce Pearl

Former Auburn Tigers guard Aden Holloway announced his commitment to the Alabama Crimson Tide on Saturday. He spent just one season at Auburn and averaged 7.3 points, 1.5 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game and shot only 31.8%.

In an interview with Brett Greenberg of 247Sports, the former McDonald's All-American explained the reason behind leaving the Tigers.

“At Auburn, I kind of got sold a dream by my coach (Bruce Pearl)," Holloway said. "The season started out good for me individually and as a team, and then he kind of went in a different direction (with) the offense.”

Aden Holloway averaged 20.2 minutes in 35 games. He opened the season on a high note, scoring 19 points against Baylor. A month later, he scored a career-high 24 points against Indiana. For the rest of the season, Holloway struggled on offense.

The former five-star recruit, known for his shooting, fills a major void in the Alabama roster that has lost its guards to either the transfer portal or the NBA Draft.

Rylan Griffen, Nick Pringle, Sam Walters, Davin Cosby and Kris Parker have all chosen to transfer. Seniors Mark Sears and Grant Nelson have declared for the draft. While both maintain their college eligibility, this was still a tricky situation for Alabama coach Nate Oats.

With Holloway's signing, Alabama may have solved one of its biggest problems.


Alabama coach Nate Oats always had his eye on Aden Holloway

The Crimson Tide tipped off against Auburn on Jan. 24 and won 79-75. Post-game, coach Oats said:

"He's one of the best guards in the country, in my opinion. We'll see a better version of them (Auburn). Holloway is going to play better."

They did, as the Tigers won their next match-up against the Tide 99-81 on Feb 7.

It looks like Nate Oats always had his eye on Aden Holloway, as he signed him just 11 days after entering the portal. The guard announced his decision to leave on Apr. 9. Nine days later; he paid an official visit to the Alabama University. On Apr. 20, Holloway signed with his new team.

One of his biggest struggles in his freshman season was his inability to finish at the rim. Holloway is undersized at six-foot-one and stood no chance against the much taller and stronger guards. It's yet to be seen how coach Oats will help the guard overcome his woes.


What do you think of Aden Holloway's transfer decision? Let's know your thoughts in the comments section below.

Also Read: WATCH: Auburn transfer Aden Holloway shares exciting video following Alabama move

What could Alabama basketball's 2024-25 starting lineup look like? Find out here

Edited by Bhargav
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