Algie Key to transfer, Carl Engstrom to explore options in Europe

Tuscaloosa— The conclusion for the Alabama men’s basketball team wasn’t as heralded as in years past under coach Anthony Grant. Positivity was rare, as the team finished with a sub .500 record and without a post-season invitation. Low moments were common. The Tide lost Nick Jacobs to “indefinite leave,” struggled to find an offensive identity, and was consistently sluggish in games outside of Coleman Coliseum.

Bama fans would collectively admit their readiness for next season to begin. Unfortunately, in his press conference on Wednesday, more disappointing news came to light. Coach Grant informed the media that not only has Carl Engstrom decided to not return next season, but Algie Key will transfer.

Engstrom was known to be a question mark for next season. His playing time had declined and coach Grant stated he will “look to find a situation professionally, being from Europe, where he can continue his development as a player.”

Grant addressed Key in a similar fashion. “I think for Algie, just a situation where [he’s] wanting more of an opportunity to play more consistent minutes, a bigger role.”

Nick Jacobs’ saga had no update from Grant. Coach was adamant in the fact that “if there is any change I’ll definitely let you know.” He speculated that he would likely have an update to Jacob’s status with the team at the end of the summer.

Hope for next season does shine through the cloud of questions. Transfer Ricky Tarrant will have his redshirt burned and after spending a year practicing with the team, he will be able to play. “I’m excited about Ricky, it’s always nice to have a veteran step in and provide the leadership. Any team that’s got a chance to be a good team, you’re going to need multiple guys to step up. I wouldn’t want to paint Ricky as a ‘savior’ but I think just with the experience he brings and what he has been able to accomplish over a two year period, I’m looking forward to getting him started.”

Rodney Cooper, Levi Randolph, Shannon Hale, and Jimmy Taylor were also addressed in an effort for coach to convey the necessity of an impactful offseason transformation in his player’s abilities. All four will likely see increased roles, with Trevor Releford graduating, and both Key and Engstrom leaving. Hale will have to fight through a broken foot, which he had surgery on today, in order to maximize his summer workouts.

What stood out most during the press conference was none of the roster semantics. It was Grant’s unwavering confidence. Questions were asked about the aforementioned roster losses, Grant seemed to have known about Key awhile coming. Questions were asked about how he evaluates his teams during the offseason, he assures fans that it will be business as usual. He even reiterated the job security of his coaching personnel, stating that he wants to maintain the same staff.

It all factors into the “vision.” Grant acknowledged he was the only one who can properly discern what that “vision” consists of. In regards to the tough schedule he likes to play, he detailed that the team must “not be afraid to face those giants.”

He stressed focus and a desire for a team that “doesn’t worry about the distractions and the sideshow that goes along with being where we are.” This is an area where all season Grant showed concern. When you have a sports program at a school with the athletic prowess, hype, and expectations that UA possesses, this vision must only include what coach Grant can control. As he says, “the rest is just noise.”

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