Alabama men’s basketball coach Nate Oats has significantly benefited from the mentorship of football legend Nick Saban, especially during challenging periods. As the Crimson Tide faced a slump before the NCAA Tournament, Oats sought guidance from various esteemed coaches, including Saban. Saban’s counsel emphasized the “next” mentality—focusing on the immediate task and not dwelling on past setbacks. This approach resonated with Oats and his team, instilling a renewed sense of purpose and resilience.
Embracing this advice, Alabama embarked on a remarkable journey, culminating in their first-ever Final Four appearance. The team secured four consecutive victories, highlighted by an 89-82 win over Clemson in the West Regional final. Reflecting on their turnaround, Oats remarked, “The best team doesn’t always win because it’s a one-game elimination tournament. You’ve got to be hot at the right time.”
Since joining Alabama in 2019, Oats has proactively engaged with successful coaches across the university’s athletic programs. He invited Patrick Murphy, the accomplished softball coach, to speak to his team about “Mudita,” a concept emphasizing joy in others’ success. Oats values the wealth of knowledge within the university, stating, “I’m going to pick the brains of all the ultra-successful coaches throughout the department.”
This collaborative approach has paid dividends. Despite entering the season with only three returning players and a largely new coaching staff, the team coalesced effectively. Key contributions from players like Mark Sears, who earned West Regional MVP honors, and newcomers such as freshman Jarin Stevenson and transfer Grant Nelson, have been instrumental in the team’s success.
Oats’s willingness to seek and apply advice from coaching luminaries like Saban has been pivotal in Alabama’s historic rise. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptability, he has positioned the Crimson Tide as a formidable force in college bask
etball.
