### Alabama Just Added a 7-Foot Swiss Army Knife — Meet Noah Williamson
Right after Alabama’s plane landed back in Tuscaloosa, Coach Nate Oats wasted zero time getting on the phone. His mission? Lock down one of the most versatile big men in the transfer portal — Noah Williamson from Bucknell.
Let’s be real: Alabama’s needed a guy like this for a while. A big man who doesn’t just block shots and dunk lobs — but someone who can actually impact both ends of the floor. And at **7 feet tall, 250 pounds**, and loaded with skill, Williamson just might be that dude.
Last season, this guy *dominated* the Patriot League. He averaged **17.6 points, 7.7 rebounds**, shot **62% from the field**, and could even stretch the floor, knocking down **32% from three**. He also made the **All-Defensive Team**, was **Player of the Year**, and cleaned up on the boards. Not bad for someone who was barely on anyone’s radar a few years ago.
And here’s the kicker — he’s not just a post-up guy. He can handle the ball a bit, dish it when needed, and fight for position like a veteran. He’s not flashy, but he’s *solid* all around — the kind of glue guy championship teams need.
#### The Long Road to the Big Stage
Williamson’s journey is wild. Born in Latvia, he started off playing high school ball in Riga, then took a prep year at the **Kristaps Porzingis Basketball Academy**. From there, he made his way to the U.S. to play at **St. Thomas More**, a legit powerhouse. Still, he didn’t get much recruiting buzz — no stars, no hype — and committed to Bucknell as soon as they offered.
He worked his way up: backup big as a freshman → third-team All-Patriot → full breakout in 2024–25 with conference **POTY** and **DPOY** honors. Every season, he got better. That’s the kind of grind that Coach Oats loves.
#### What’s Next?
Now, the big question is: **Can he handle the SEC?** The league’s faster, more physical, and deeper than anything he’s seen. He’s not the twitchiest athlete out there, but he brings size, experience, and a full skillset. Think Grant Nelson with a little more meat on his bones.
There’s still work to do — he’ll need to improve his footwork, get in better shape, and be ready to move without the ball in Oats’ up-tempo system. He also has to get more aggressive around the rim. But if he adjusts quickly, watch out.
Bottom line: **Williamson isn’t just a big body — he’s a baller.** And if he hits his stride, he could be a game-changer for this Alabama team.
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**Welcome to T-Town, Noah. Let’s get to work.**
**Roll Tide.**
The 7-Foot Problem No One’s Ready For: Bama’s Noah Williamson Has Arrived
