Alabama will be without forward Taylor Bol Bowen when they host South Carolina, a tough blow for a Crimson Tide squad looking to stay sharp in a tight SEC race.
Head coach Nate Oats confirmed the absence ahead of the league’s injury report, noting that Bowen didn’t participate in practice on Friday. And while the sophomore transfer has been grinding through multiple injuries, it’s clear his body isn’t quite ready to keep up with the demands of SEC play.
“Respect Taylor a ton, but you can tell he's not close to 100%,” Oats said. “Just trying to tough it out for his teammates.”
Bowen’s been a steady contributor this season, averaging 7.2 points and 5.1 rebounds across 24 games. He’s done that while managing a leg injury he picked up against Florida and a lingering hand issue from earlier in the year. Add in some back spasms that sidelined him in December, and it’s been a physically taxing stretch for the Florida State transfer.
Oats didn’t shut the door completely on a quick turnaround, but the tone was cautious.
“If he doesn't feel significantly better tomorrow, I guess he'll be listed as 'questionable' or 'doubtful' tonight,” Oats said. “We gotta get him back to where he's flying around.”
That last part is key. When Bowen’s at full speed, he brings an edge Alabama leans on - especially on the defensive end and the glass. His absence will force the Tide to dig a little deeper into their rotation as they prepare for a South Carolina team that’s been one of the surprise stories in the SEC.
Alabama enters the matchup at 17-7 overall and 7-4 in conference play. Tipoff is set for Saturday at 6 p.m. CT.