Nate Oats Sends Message to Alabama Fans Amid Links to Kentucky
With John Calipari expected to sign a five-year deal to take over as the head coach at Arkansas, a handful of coaches have been linked to the vacancy that's anticipated to open up at Kentucky.
Among the names attached to the job is Alabama's Nate Oats, who sent a message to fans of the program on Monday ahead of the national championship tilt between UConn and Purdue.
Oats made clear in his statement that he's committed to the Crimson Tide after the program's successful run to the Final Four this year. Although the Wildcats' vacancy figures to be considered among the most desirable jobs in the sport, Oats wants to continue building what he started in Tuscaloosa.
"Bama Nation, I am fully committed to this team and this University. We have already accomplished some great things here, and there is nothing I want more than for the University of Alabama to win its first national championship in men's basketball. Despite any rumors to the contrary, rest assured that I will continue that pursuit as your head coach. Roll Tide!" wrote Oats on Monday.
Oats signed a new contract with Alabama in March that will run through the 2030 season reportedly includes a significant buyout. Should Kentucky try to lure him away from the Crimson Tide, they'd owe Alabama $18 million, per AL.com
Oats has been the coach of Crimson Tide since the 2019–20 season and just wrapped up his fifth year in the role. He's led the team to four consecutive NCAA Tournament berths, culminating in three Sweet Sixteens and a Final Four.
