Alabama’s Derrion Reid Out Again; Mark Sears Expected to Play Against Kentucky

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — The University of Alabama’s men’s basketball team will be without freshman guard Derrion Reid for the second consecutive game due to a lingering hamstring injury. Reid’s absence comes as the Crimson Tide prepares to face the University of Kentucky at 5 p.m. CT on Saturday at Coleman Coliseum, a game that will be broadcast on ESPN.

Reid, a McDonald’s All-American, has struggled with his injuries throughout the season and did not participate in the game against the University of Missouri on Wednesday. Alabama head coach Nate Oats had previously indicated that rushing Reid back into action could jeopardize his long-term career potential.

“I think he’s going to be a pro,” Oats said. “He came in as a McDonald’s All-American; he’s got all the intangibles — tough, great attitude, high IQ, and athletic. We really don’t want to hurt his long-term career by rushing something to win a game or two.”

Before missing the last two games, Reid played just five minutes against Auburn, where he reaggravated his hamstring injury. Oats emphasized the importance of not pushing Reid back too soon. “It’s hard not getting the reps, and he’s missed maybe 35, 36 percent of our practice reps this year,” Oats noted.

While the Crimson Tide must adjust without Reid, there is positive news regarding junior guard Mark Sears. Initially listed as probable on the availability report, Oats confirmed he is expected to play after a standout performance against Missouri, where he scored 30 points.

<p“That might have been Mark’s best game,” Oats said. “He scored very efficiently, and his effort on defense was as good as it’s been all year.”

Sears exhibited no visible signs of injury during warm-ups before Saturday’s game, suggesting he is prepared to contribute significantly against the Wildcats. Oats highlighted Sears’ recent performance, mentioning he only took three more shots against Missouri than he did against Auburn but scored double the points.

As the Crimson Tide enters this crucial matchup against Kentucky, Oats remains cautious about Reid’s return, focusing on the long-term potential of his players. The SEC has mandated injury reports prior to conference games, categorizing players as “probable,” “questionable,” “doubtful,” or “out,” although only for conference matchups.

The matchup against Kentucky represents the 14th SEC game of the regular season for Alabama, currently ranked No. 4 in the nation. Both teams are vying for a strong finish as the postseason approaches, making the clarity on player injuries even more significant.