TUSCALOOSA, AL — Alabama men’s basketball coach Nate Oats on Monday dispelled any rumors that he may be interviewing for other gigs following rumors regarding the job at Kentucky.
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“I am fully committed to this team and to this University,” Oats said in a statement Monday night on social media. “We have already accomplished some great things here, and there is nothing I want more than for The University of Alabama to win its first national championship in men’s basketball. Despite any rumors to the contrary, rest assured that I will continue that pursuit as your head coach.”
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Oats’ star is burning brighter than ever after signing and extension and taking the Tide to the Sweet Sixteen last year and the program’s very first Final Four appearance this past season. This has prompted many to speculate that Oats could be on the short list of candidates for basketball bluebloods like the Wildcats.
Over five seasons in Tuscaloosa, Oats has posted a 117–54 overall record, along with two seasons where the Tide was both SEC regular season and conference tournament champions.
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UA Director of Athletics Greg Byrne expressed a commitment to support Oats as he continues the program’s pursuit of a national championship, before encouraging fans to be a part of that by supporting Yea Alabama — Alabama’s official NIL program established to cultivate and harness Name, Image, and Likeness opportunities for Alabama student-athletes.
“I know I’ve said this before but want to reiterate how important this is with the changing landscape in college athletics,” Byrne said. “Nate and I talk regularly about the priorities of the program and NIL is at the forefront, as is a day-to-day development space for our team, which we are taking steps to address as we speak. We appreciate your support through Yea Alabama and look forward to celebrating more championships in the years to come.”
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