TJ St. Louis Adds Alabama Freshman Center for 2026

Nate Oats continues to bolster Alabama basketball’s frontcourt depth. On Monday, the Crimson Tide secured the commitment of 7‑foot Canadian center TJ St. Louis, an unranked player in the 247 Sports Composite Rankings. St. Louis will join the 2026‑2027 roster and become one of five freshmen currently under Oats’ guidance.

Alabama’s 2026 Recruiting Class Takes Shape

The incoming freshman group is a mix of high‑profile talent and versatile depth. St. Louis stands as the sole center among the newcomers, while the class also features five‑star strong forward Jaxon Richardson. Completing the quintet are four‑star recruits Tarris Bouie, Anderson Diaz, and Qayden Samuels.

• Jaxon Richardson – five‑star strong forward.
• Tarris Bouie – four‑star prospect.
• Anderson Diaz – four‑star prospect.
• Qayden Samuels – four‑star prospect.
• TJ St. Louis – 7‑foot Canadian center, unranked.

Off the court, Alabama has reinforced its frontcourt through the transfer portal. The Crimson Tide added three experienced centers to provide immediate size and experience. The newcomers are Drew Fielder from Boise State, Jamarion Davis‑Fleming of Mississippi State, and Brandon Garrison formerly of Kentucky. These acquisitions underscore Oats’ focus on extending the team’s length and interior presence.

• Drew Fielder – Boise State transfer.
• Jamarion Davis‑Fleming – Mississippi State transfer.
• Brandon Garrison – Kentucky transfer.

St. Louis arrived at Alabama after rejecting an offer from Eastern Michigan, choosing instead to continue his development under Oats. He brings NBA Academy experience, having spent time in the NBA Academy Latin America program. This past season he played for Fort Erie Prep in Ontario, showcasing his versatility and work ethic.

Alabama capped the 2024 season with a run to the Sweet 16 before falling to eventual national champion Michigan. The Crimson Tide are projected as a preseason top‑25 team and will open the schedule with matches against The Players Era, St. John’s, and Houston. The new frontcourt pieces, including St. Louis, are expected to give Oats more options as he aims to push the program deeper into March.