(Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)
The Crimson Tide faithful have shed the shadows of Mark Gottfried's mediocrity and are hoping for a resurgence to being once again regarded as a powerhouse in the SEC Western Division, and the conference as a whole. Most respect new head coach Anthony Grant and his job at VCU, and most expect him to turn the Tide against their recent history.
But just how fast will that U-turn be?
If Alabama hopes to compete for the postseason, it will need a quick one.
The Tide slid a long way from their 2003-04 Elite Eight appearance. Since then, the team has won 20 games just twice, flirted with the .500 mark in 2007-08 (17-16) and went 18-14 last year. Despite some talent on the roster, turbulence and a lack of consistency played a major role in the team's struggles.
Gottfried resigned mid-season, shortly after star point guard Ronald Steele announced he was leaving the team and implied being mistreated by his former coach.
This year's team is without a four-year mainstay in do-it-all Alonzo Gee. As a guard, Gee could shoot it and was a great dunker, but was most adept at driving to the basket. Many comparisons were drawn between Alonzo and recent Mississippi State standout Jamont Gordon, and they were largely appropriate. Gee's strength and aggressive attitude provided the squad with some much-needed leadership that will be difficult to replace in 2009-10.
Monstrously inefficient shooter Brandon Hollinger and under-talented big man Yamene Coleman join the list of 'Bama players who don't return.
Filling their spots will be a set of talented newcomers, with highly-respected four-star Tony Mitchell leading the way.
Tony Mitchell (#38 overall, #7 SF, 4 stars)
Mitchell is the highlight of the class. He's 6'6" and 185lbs, quick and athletic. He can shoot and drive the basket and should see a great deal of playing time this year.
Ben Elben (#28 PG, 3 stars)
This 6-foot, 185-pound point guard is the kind of leader Grant needs to take the reins of this year's Alabama squad. Elben fits the hole that Steele left very well, as he is known for his intelligence, patience, and leadership. Though he isn't exactly quick in either his running or shooting, his presence alone should help 'Bama organize its offense better. Expect Elben to push for a starting position from day one.
Charvez Davis (SG, 3 stars)
Junior College transfer known for his three-point accuracy. Should see some playing time if he lives up to his shooting potential.
Chris Hines (3 stars)
Hines is 6'7" and 225 pounds, a thick "small forward" who can shoot. A Junior-College All-American, Hines is three years removed from high-school and should help 'Bama with their lack of depth in the paint.
Returning, though, is a crew that is moderately talented and—with good coaching—could turn 2009-10 into a respectable year.
4 Comments
Loading more comments...
This comment and all replies have been deleted This comment has been deleted Undo delete