BREAKING: Top-35 recruit Tarris Bouie has officially committed to the Alabama Crimson Tide basketball team, marking a significant development in the recruiting landscape. This commitment, announced earlier today, follows just two days after fellow prospect Chris Washington Jr. also pledged to Alabama, propelling the Crimson Tide to two top-50 recruits in one week.
Bouie, a highly sought-after 6-foot-7 wing, visited Tuscaloosa last weekend and wasted no time in finalizing his decision. “Coach Oats recruited me hard, and I really like their style of play,” Bouie shared with ESPN. His enthusiasm for Alabama’s fast-paced gameplay and three-point shooting was clear, showcasing how well he fits into Coach Nate Oats‘ system.
The urgency surrounding Bouie’s commitment is amplified by his ranking as the No. 33 player in the ESPN 100. His decision not only strengthens Alabama’s 2026 recruiting class but also underscores the program’s momentum under Oats, who has secured top-ranked recruiting classes for five consecutive years.
Bouie had narrowed his options to Alabama, Cincinnati, Georgetown, Marquette, Mississippi State, NC State, Ole Miss, and Texas but chose to commit after only visiting Alabama. His performance over the past spring and summer on the Nike EYBL circuit, where he averaged 15.5 points and 6.0 rebounds, has solidified his reputation as an elite scorer with the capability to pressure defenses as both a scorer and playmaker.
In addition to his scoring prowess, Bouie possesses versatility on defense, with potential to guard multiple positions. His soft touch and explosiveness on the court make him a dynamic player, although he aims to enhance his strength to better navigate contact during drives.
Joining Bouie in Alabama’s 2026 class is Washington Jr., the top prospect from Tennessee, ranked No. 41 overall. Washington, a 6-foot-9 forward, also committed to Alabama without visiting other planned schools, further showcasing the Crimson Tide’s recruiting appeal.
The Crimson Tide are not resting on their laurels; they are expected to host several other high-profile recruits this weekend, including top-15 prospects Caleb Holt, Dylan Mingo, and Jaxon Richardson.
Alabama’s recruiting success is noteworthy, positioning them as one of only two programs with multiple top-50 commitments for the 2026 cycle. The excitement surrounding this program reflects a broader trend in college basketball, where elite talent increasingly gravitates toward Alabama’s innovative style.
Stay tuned for further updates as Alabama continues to attract top talent, reshaping the future of their basketball program.