Nate Oats Announces Hire of Erwin Dudley

Alabama men's basketball head coach Nate Oats announced the official hire of Erwin Dudley to the Crimson Tide's staff on Tuesday, according to a release by the University of Alabama.

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Dudley has been hired as the special assistant to the head coach, according to the release. He spent the previous two seasons as a graduate assistant for the Crimson Tide.

“Erwin’s name is synonymous with the history of Alabama basketball, and we are thrilled to have him around,” Oats said in a press release. “Not only has Erwin been exceptional in his role the last two years, but he also possesses a servant’s heart who has been a great resource for our current players. He will thrive in this role, and we are happy to have Erwin stay in the program.”

Dudley is one of the best players in the history of Alabama basketball, being named SEC Player of the Year and AP Third Team All-American during the 2002 men's basketball season. Dudley was also named an SEC basketball legend in 2019.

Dudley is fourth all-time on the Alabama rebounding list with 1,184 rebounds and ninth all-time on the Tide's scoring list with 1,775 career points. During his two-year tenure as a graduate assistant, the Tide won 53 games and made back-to-back appearances in the Elite Eight, with Alabama making the Final Four during the 2024 postseason.

“I am excited and honored to be able to continue my coaching career at Alabama,” Dudley said. “This program means so much to me and his given so many opportunities. I am excited to continue to be a resource for our players and staff, helping out in any way possible.”

Wyatt Fulton is the Tide 100.9 DME and Brand Manager, primarily covering Alabama Crimson Tide football and men's basketball. For more Crimson Tide coverage, follow Wyatt on X (Formerly known as Twitter) at @FultonW_.