BREAKING NEWS: Alabama HC Nate Oats has been consulting with legends, including Nick Saban, for Final Four run

When Nate Oats accepted the head-coaching position for Alabama basketball before the 2019-2020 season, he was aware that the Crimson Tide had the necessary foundation for building a successful team.

 

Although Nick Saban had already achieved great success with the football team, Oats believed that the university and athletic program were well-equipped for success in any sport.

Upon taking the job, Oats, along with his agent Rick, recognized the abundant resources available at Alabama for achieving victory. He trusted his agent’s advice and felt confident that the university provided all the essential tools for winning.

In a recent interview discussing Alabama’s journey to the Final Four, Oats mentioned, “We have assembled competitive teams. It’s a matter of persistence and continuous efforts to reach the pinnacle of success.

During this March Madness run, Alabama has not only defeated No. 13 Charleston and No. 12 Grand Canyon but also secured significant victories against No. 1 North Carolina in the Sweet 16 and No. 6 Clemson in the Elite 8.

The wins over North Carolina and Clemson were particularly impressive. The victory over the Tar Heels was hard-fought with Alabama triumphing 89-87, while Clemson had been on a winning streak, defeating No. 3 Baylor and No. 2 Arizona prior to the Elite 8 matchup.

Nate Oats’ team deserves credit for pulling off these major victories. Oats mentioned seeking advice from legendary figures before the showdown with Clemson to strategize a path to success for the Tide.

To secure a spot in the Final Four, Oats consulted with experienced coaches who have a proven track record of winning crucial games.

“We studied the strategies of similar teams that have achieved success in such circumstances. Syracuse managed it twice. I reached out to Jim Boeheim for insights on what steps we needed to take. Similarly, I contacted Frank Martin as South Carolina had a remarkable Final Four run despite a lukewarm end to their season. I sought advice on their approach. Additionally, I consulted Coach Nick Saban for guidance on our next course of action, and he emphasized the importance of focusing on ‘next’ steps continually,” Oats explained.

In the upcoming Final Four, Alabama will face the reigning national champions, the UConn Huskies, with the opportunity to advance to the final against either Purdue or NC State.

“I firmly believe we can make this remarkable journey. History shows that other teams have accomplished it, and we possess the potential to achieve the same,” Oats expressed confidently.