North Dakota State Transfer Grant Nelson Officially Commits to Alabama Basketball

Nelson becomes the third member of a very strong transfer portal class for Nate Oats.

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — After being expected to commit to Alabama for some time, North Dakota State transfer forward Grant Nelson has officially announced his decision to play college basketball in Tuscaloosa next season, according to a report from Stadium’s Jeff Goodman.

Nelson, a 6-foot-11 forward, was one of the most highly-coveted players in the transfer portal after playing three seasons for the Bison. Alabama won his commitment over Arkansas, which adds even more juice to the blossoming rivalry between the two blossoming powers in the SEC.

While at North Dakota State this past year, Nelson was a First Team All-Summit League selection, averaging just under 18 points per game and just over nine rebounds. 

Nelson is almost guaranteed to slide into a starting role for head coach Nate Oats this fall, with Charles Bediako's departure to the NBA Draft and Nick Pringle being the only returning big man on the roster. Outside of Pringle and Nelson, the Crimson Tide has two freshman bigs enrolling in 4-stars Sam Walters and Mo Dioubate. 

With his size, athleticism and fluidity to his game, Nelson is a natural fit in Alabama's offensive system. His has a respectable 3-point shot to be able to stretch the floor, and has a plethora of moves at his disposal when attacking the basket.

Nelson joins an Alabama transfer class that includes two guards in Aaron Estrada and Latrell Wrightsell Jr., both of which bolster an already strong backcourt with the returns of Mark Sears and Rylan Griffen. 

Alabama now has two open scholarships remaining to likely add another guard after the loss of Jahvon Quinerly to the transfer portal.

See also:

Alabama Basketball Roster Tracker: 2023 Offseason

Alabama Basketball Newcomer Breakdown: Aaron Estrada