Alabama head coach Nate Oats confirmed that freshman Jaxon Richardson will sit out Friday’s regular-season opener against Arkansas State at Coleman Coliseum. The Crimson Tide announced the news during the pregame show on the Crimson Tide Sports Network, citing an upper-extremity injury as the reason for his absence. While officials did not provide a specific timetable for his return, they emphasized that the injury is not expected to be long-term, keeping the door open for a swift recovery.
Freshman guard misses second game due to upper-extremity injury, limiting early-season impact
Richardson’s absence comes just three days after he made his collegiate debut in Alabama’s 96-74 season-opening victory over Sam Houston on Tuesday. The freshman played 15 minutes off the bench, contributing four points, four rebounds, one assist, and one steal. His performance included two made field goals on four attempts and a highlight-reel windmill dunk that marked his first collegiate basket, signaling his immediate potential to energize the Coleman Coliseum crowd.
This setback adds a layer of complexity to Richardson’s early season, as he had already dealt with an illness during preseason preparations that led to a minutes restriction upon entering the regular season. With the guard sidelined, Alabama must rely on its current rotation to maintain offensive momentum against Arkansas State. The coaching staff will likely monitor his recovery closely, aiming to reintegrate him once he is fully cleared, ensuring he can continue to develop without risking further injury.
Source: Yahoo Sports
