ESPN analyst Jeff Borzello has unveiled his way‑too‑early Top 25 preview for the 2026‑27 college basketball season, slotting the Crimson Tide at No. 15. The projection places Alabama among the nation’s elite despite a roster that will look markedly different from last year.
New Faces Set to Shape the Crimson Tide
Two true freshmen — Jaxon Richardson and Qayden Samuels — are expected to assume pivotal roles right out of the gate. Richardson, already labeled the team’s "Impact Newcomer," is slated to contribute immediately, while Samuels brings a versatile skill set that could diversify the offense.
The departures of star guard Labaron Philon Jr., drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers, and big man Aiden Sherrell, who transferred to Indiana, create openings that the newcomers are poised to fill. Their arrivals come at a time when depth and fresh talent are critical for maintaining competitive edge.
Coaches and analysts alike view the blend of returning experience with the infusion of fresh legs as a formula that could keep Alabama among the top tier of the sport. The early rankings suggest that the program’s momentum remains strong, even as it navigates significant change.