Father of coveted transfer Grant Nelson recaps official visit to Alabama

Starting on Tuesday, Nate Oats and his staff at Alabama rolled out the red carpet to North Dakota State transfer Grant Nelson for an official visit. Nelson, a native of Devils Lake (N.D.), is the top remaining uncommitted college basketball transfer in the country.

BamaOnLine spoke with his father, Nels, about the visit, the staff’s message to Grant, future plans, and more.

“[Their pitch is that] Grant would fit into their plan pretty well and their team,” Mr. Nelson said. “That’s what we’re looking for: The fit.”

Oats, in particular, made a strong impression on them during their multi-day stay in Tuscaloosa.

“The same stuff all the top-notch guys say: What they do and how they do it,” Mr. Nelson said of Oats’ message. “Real matter of fact, good guy. I just really respect him.”

During the visit, Nelson and his father got an in-depth look at the school, the strength and conditioning program, and saw a little bit of T-Town as well.

Bama being a well-oiled machine was brought up by Mr. Nelson when recapping the trip.

“It’s great. They’re a solid operation,” Mr. Nelson said. “Just top-notch. Nothing weak here… this is a top-notch bunch of guys.”

“[The highlight] was just seeing the professionalism,” Mr. Nelson added. “It’s a whole different level from where I come from. It’s really cool to see a new level of professionalism.”

He also had the following to say when asked how he would rate the Alabama visit on a scale of 1-10.

“It’s up there in the 10 range as far as good people,” Mr. Nelson replied.

Up next, the two will head to Arkansas today for an official visit with the Razorbacks.

How long is that trip expected to last?

“Just a day,” Mr. Nelson replied.

Nelson’s mother, Meg, previously told BamaOnLine that her son “should” be making a decision by the end of this week. There are currently no other visits set up besides the Arkansas one.

Mr. Nelson is not yet sure how Grant will announce the decision, but outlined what his son is looking for.

“[He’s looking for] fit for the team, workouts/strength and conditioning, and preparedness for the NBA,” Mr. Nelson said. “A good bunch of guys to work with so that happens.”

Nelson was a First-Team All-Summit League performer last season. He averaged 17.9 points, 9.3 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.7 blocks per contest on 52.1 percent shooting from the floor for the Bison. The 6-foot-11 forward is a rising senior.

Alabama fans, also be sure to join the discussion about Grant Nelson on the The BOL Round Table. There’s always a lot of great team, recruiting, and off-topic conversations going on. So, we look forward to talking with you all there!

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