Good News For Alabama as familiar face is reportedly set to visit Alabama basketball on Friday.

Nate Oats and the Alabama basketball program are set to welcome a familiar face back to Tuscaloosa on Friday. According to reports, former Crimson Tide guard Rylan Griffen — who transferred to Kansas last year — will be visiting and is reportedly considering a return to Alabama.

Rylan Griffen Set to Visit Alabama, Could Rejoin Crimson Tide

Nate Oats and Alabama basketball are set to host a familiar face this Friday, as former Crimson Tide guard Rylan Griffen returns to Tuscaloosa for a visit. Griffen, who transferred to Kansas following Alabama’s 2024 Final Four run, is reportedly considering a return via the transfer portal.

Griffen played two productive seasons under Oats before his brief stint with the Jayhawks. At Kansas, he struggled to find his rhythm, averaging just 6.3 points per game with shooting splits of 37/33/67. In contrast, he thrived as a sophomore at Alabama, putting up 11.2 points per game while shooting 45% from the field, 39% from three, and 81% from the line.

A proven fit in Alabama’s pace-and-space offense, Griffen was a key contributor during the 2024 Final Four campaign. While his numbers dipped in Lawrence, a return to Oats’ system could help him rediscover his efficient form from the 2023-24 season.

Oats May Face a Tough Decision Between Griffen and Cedric Coward

Griffen’s visit adds intrigue to Alabama’s offseason, especially with things quieting down around Washington State transfer Cedric Coward. Coward, who is also testing the NBA Draft waters, is reportedly deciding between Alabama and Duke.

While it’s possible the Tide could take both players, roster construction suggests there may only be room for one. Coward is widely seen as the more talented prospect, but Griffen holds the edge in experience at the high-major level. Coward was electric in limited action this past season, averaging over 17 points per game before a rotator cuff injury sidelined him after just seven games.

In an ideal scenario, Oats lands either Coward or Griffen, brings back freshman standout Labaron Philon, and adds a versatile 3/4 wing like Tarleton State’s Keitenn Bristow, who recently visited campus.

However, if Philon doesn’t return, Alabama may opt to bring in both Griffen and Coward. That scenario would require added playmaking from the backcourt, putting more on the shoulders of Auburn transfer Aden Holloway, with contributions from Latrell Wrightsell, Jalil Bethea, and the incoming wings.