"Following Friday's reversal of his campus ban after his recent arrest, Alabama star Aden Holloway is planning to enroll in fall classes and hoping to rejoin the team next season pending the outcome of his legal case," his attorney, Jason Neff, told ESPN on Friday.
Holloway's ability to play for the Crimson Tide in the upcoming season hinges on the resolution of legal charges stemming from a March 2026 arrest, where police reportedly found 2.1 pounds of marijuana and cash in his apartment. This development follows a recent decision to lift his campus ban, allowing him to enroll in fall courses.
The guard, a notable figure for the team, had previously announced his return for the 2025-26 season along with teammates Latrell Wrightsell Jr., Aiden Sherrell, and Houston Mallette. Holloway was a significant contributor, averaging 11.4 points and shooting 41.2% from three-point range. His return was announced via the team's official NIL entity, "Yea Alabama."
However, the legal entanglement casts a long shadow. Holloway was arrested on March 16, 2026, and charged with first-degree possession of marijuana, a felony in Alabama where marijuana is only legal for medical use. He also faced a charge for failure to affix a tax stamp. The arrest prompted school officials to ban him from campus and classes.
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Coach Nate Oats, speaking on his radio show shortly after the arrest, indicated the team was preparing to play without Holloway for the NCAA Tournament. Oats has since refrained from speculating on when Holloway might be cleared to return. The player was removed from campus following the arrest.
Holloway is a junior guard, in his second season with Alabama after transferring from Auburn. His legal situation appears to be the primary impediment to his continued participation with the team, overriding his earlier commitment to return for the 2025-26 season. The outcome of his legal proceedings will ultimately determine his playing status.
