Nate Oats Updates on Rylan Griffen’s Calf Injury in Alabama’s Blowout Loss at Florida

In a disappointing turn of events for Alabama basketball, the team faced a blowout loss at the hands of Florida, coupled with an unfortunate injury setback. Head coach Nate Oats shared updates on Rylan Griffen’s condition, revealing a calf injury that occurred in the closing minutes of the game.

Alabama guard Latrell Wrightsell Jr. returned to the court after recovering from a concussion, providing a silver lining for the team. However, the joy was short-lived as Rylan Griffen, another key player, suffered a calf injury with just over four minutes left on the clock. The collision resulted in a technical foul for Coach Oats, who expressed frustration with the officiating postgame.

“(Griffen) has got a calf injury. We’re gonna get an MRI on it in the morning. I’m not sure what, if it’s a strain or something. I thought he got hit, knocked down. They thought it was a loose ball and both guys were going for it,” Oats explained.

Griffen, who had been averaging 26.3 minutes and 9.0 points per game, was visibly struggling to put weight on his right leg as he was assisted off the floor. Sam Walters stepped in to replace Griffen but fouled out during the course of the game.

Despite the challenges, Alabama is looking to regroup for the upcoming games against Arkansas and the conference tournament. Freshman guard Davin Cosby and Walters, though contributing four points on 2 for 9 shooting against the Gators, will need to step up their performance for the team to make a successful run.

Coach Oats acknowledged the efforts of Wrightsell, who is gradually returning to game shape after the concussion. However, the team faces uncertainties with Griffen’s absence and the need for consistent performances from the supporting players.

In the aftermath of the loss, Alabama (20-10, 12-5 SEC) faces the reality of its first back-to-back conference defeats in two years, a setback that adds to the challenges ahead. As the team navigates through the remainder of the season, the hope is that Griffen’s MRI results will shed light on the extent of his injury, providing a clearer path for Alabama’s future games.

In a disappointing turn of events for Alabama basketball, the team faced a blowout loss at the hands of Florida, coupled with an unfortunate injury setback. Head coach Nate Oats shared updates on Rylan Griffen’s condition, revealing a calf injury that occurred in the closing minutes of the game. Alabama guard Latrell Wrightsell Jr. returned…