Jaden Shackelford Announces Time to "Run it Back" at Alabama

Originally posted on FanNation Bama Central
By Harrison Holland | Last updated 7/20/21

Guard Jaden Shackelford is returning to Alabama for a third year under head coach Nate Oats and the Crimson Tide.

After entering the NBA draft process in the spring, Shackelford then announced his intentions of removing his name from the process, while also entering the NCAA Transfer Portal.

He initially considered Ohio State, Oklahoma, Texas Tech, and a return to Alabama. With a potential Shackelford absence, the Crimson Tide would've lost every member of its starting five from the 2021 lineup.

Its leading scorer, too.

That won't be the case now, according to his Twitter, where he announced it's time to "run it back" with the program he helped guide to two conference championships and a Sweet 16 appearance in the 2021 season and NCAA Tournament

After his freshman season in a more secondary role, Shackelford averaged 14 points-per-game at Alabama last season and earned SEC All-Conference Second Team honors.

Other returns of the Crimson Tide's backcourt include key contributor Jahvon Quinerly, fellow McDonald's All-American JD Davison, and Texas Tech transfer Nimari Burnett.

In all, Alabama now returns eight players from its SEC championship roster. The first game of the 2021-22 season is scheduled for the holiday season, November 25, as the Crimson Tide participate in a preseason tournament in Orlando, Fla.

Alabama will now carry its 13-scholarship limit this season, ensuring it has one of the largest rosters and some of the best depth in the country, despite key contributions needed for inexperienced players.

The coaching staff of the Crimson Tide made a big splash today in Shackelford.

This article first appeared on FanNation Bama Central and was syndicated with permission.

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