Chris Youngblood Expected to Debut for Alabama

Alabama basketball's Chris Youngblood, a transfer from South Florida and the 2023-24 AAC Player of the Year, is expected to make his season debut against Creighton after recovering from a preseason ankle injury that required surgery. Coach Nate Oats indicated that Youngblood has practiced in a limited capacity and could play limited minutes in the upcoming home game, marking Alabama's first match in Coleman Coliseum in over a month. Youngblood's return is particularly timely following the loss of veteran guard Latrell Wrightsell to a season-ending Achilles injury. The Crimson Tide, ranked No. 7, is looking to secure their first victory against Creighton, having lost all three previous encounters. Oats emphasized the need to manage Youngblood's workload carefully as he adjusts back into the game. Youngblood averaged 15.3 points and shot 41.6% from three-point range last season, providing a much-needed boost to the Alabama backcourt.