BREAKING: Top-25 Recruit Qayden Samuels Commits to Alabama Basketball
In a major win for the Crimson Tide, 2026 five-star small forward Qayden Samuels has officially committed to the University of Alabama, choosing the Tuscaloosa program over Georgetown to continue his basketball journey. Samuels, one of the most highly regarded prospects in the nation, is projected to bring elite scoring and positional versatility to Coach Nate Oats’ system.
Elite Prospect Joins the Tide
Samuels, a 6-5 (205-210 lb) small forward from Bishop McNamara High School in Maryland, finished his high school career as a consensus top-25 recruit in the class of 2026.
Throughout his recruitment he drew interest from programs across the country, but narrowed his final decision to Alabama and Georgetown, with Alabama widely considered the favorite.
What Alabama Gets in Samuels
Samuels brings a scoring-first skill set to the Tide. Scouts praise his ability to put up points from all three levels. notably as an off-the-dribble threat from deep and as a mid-range pull-up scorer, with a high release point that keeps defenders honest. His summer EYBL play with Team Takeover highlighted his efficiency off ball screens and comfort attacking closeouts, averaging strong per-possessions numbers against elite competition.
Physically, Samuels possesses a strong frame and length, giving him the tools to be a versatile defender and rebounder at the wing. While evaluators note that his consistency and decision-making will be areas of continued growth, his scoring instincts and competitive mentality make him a promising fit in Alabama’s high-octane offense.
Fit in Nate Oats’ System
Head Coach Nate Oats has built Alabama into one of college basketball’s most exciting offenses, emphasizing pace, spacing, and efficient shot selection. Oats’ “four-out/one-in” spacing creates open driving lanes and kick-out opportunities, which maximizes the value of wings who can create and convert.
Samuels’ ability to score off movement, his comfort attacking in transition, and his pull-up shooting are all traits that align with Alabama’s offensive blueprint. His presence on the wing should help:
Stretch defenses with pick-and-pop and catch-and-shoot threats.
Pressure closeouts and generate downhill drives, a key tenet of Oats’ spacing concepts.
Fuel transition scoring in a lineup that already values pushing the pace.
Defensively, Samuels’ length and physicality give Alabama more options to switch and contest on the perimeter. As he continues to refine his defensive instincts, he can be a valuable two-way contributor in an SEC environment that demands versatility.
Alabama’s Class and Future Outlook
Samuels’ commitment significantly bolsters Alabama’s 2026 recruiting class, already in position to be one of the strongest in the nation. His addition alongside existing targets shows Oats’ continued ability to land premium wing talent, a cornerstone for deep NCAA Tournament runs and professional readiness.
With Samuels expected to bring immediate scoring punch, improved spacing, and matchup flexibility, the Crimson Tide are positioning themselves at the top of the SEC and as a national contender in the years ahead.
Written by Alex Karamanos | January 28, 2026