TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Alabama men’s basketball head coach Nate Oats announced Tuesday the hiring of Erwin Dudley as special assistant to the head coach. Dudley spent the last two seasons (2023-25) as a graduate assistant for the Crimson Tide after one of the most decorated careers in school history (2000-03). 

“Erwin’s name is synonymous with the history of Alabama basketball and we are thrilled to have him around,” Oats said. “Not only has Erwin been exceptional in his role the last two years but he also possesses a servant’s heart who has been a great resource for our current players. He will thrive in this role and we are happy to have Erwin stay in the program.”  

Recognized as one of the best players in Alabama Basketball history, Dudley was named SEC Player of the Year and an Associated Press Third Team All-America selection in 2002 while being tabbed an SEC Basketball Legend in 2019. Dudley ranks fourth on Alabama’s all-time rebounding list (1,184 rebounds) and ninth on the program’s all-time scoring list with 1,775 career points. During his two years as a graduate assistant the Tide has won 53 games while appearing in back-to-back Elite Eights and the program’s first-ever trip to the Final Four (2024). 

“I am excited and honored to be able to continue my coaching career at Alabama,” Dudley said. “This program means so much to me and his given so many opportunities I am excited to continue to be a resource for our players and staff, helping out in any way possible.”