Alabama basketball is making waves in the transfer portal once again, securing a major commitment from 7-foot, 250-pound center Noah Williamson. The Bucknell standout and 2025 Patriot League Player of the Year brings size, experience, and international pedigree to a Crimson Tide team looking to reload after a deep Elite Eight run.
Head coach Nate Oats and assistant Preston Murphy wasted no time identifying Williamson as a key target after losing frontcourt anchors Mark Sears, Grant Nelson, and Clifford Omoruyi. With rim protection and rebounding high on the offseason wishlist, the addition of Williamson immediately addresses one of Alabama’s biggest needs.
In his final season at Bucknell, Williamson averaged 12.3 points and 6.4 rebounds per game while recording nine double-doubles. He was a consistent force in the paint, highlighted by a career-best 32-point explosion against Southern Indiana and a 16-rebound performance versus Loyola Maryland. His physical presence, soft touch around the rim, and rebounding instincts make him a perfect fit for Oats’ high-paced, physically demanding system.
Williamson’s connection to the Crimson Tide also runs deeper than just basketball. He shares an alma mater with incoming freshman London Jemison—St. Thomas More in West Hartford, Connecticut. Though they attended during different years, their shared background may help ease the transition into Alabama’s locker room.
Beyond the American college circuit, Williamson brings a wealth of international experience. The 22-year-old was born and raised in Riga, Latvia, and has represented his home country on the U16, U18, and U19 national teams. He honed his craft at the prestigious Kristaps Porzingis Basketball Academy before making the jump to the U.S., where he continued to develop as a high-level post player.
With Williamson’s commitment, Alabama adds a battle-tested big man who not only fills an urgent roster gap but brings a mature, seasoned perspective to the locker room. His rebounding, rim protection, and international polish could prove invaluable as the Tide looks to build on the momentum of its NCAA Tournament success.
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