Nate Oats’ Relationship-Building Wins Top 2026 Wing Tarris Bouie Over Ole Miss and Texas

Alabama coach Nate Oats’ personal approach and steady presence were decisive in securing four-star wing Tarris Bouie’s commitment to the Crimson Tide. Bouie, a 6-foot-6 prospect from SPIRE Academy, opted for Alabama over Texas, Ole Miss and several other high-major programs after developing a close rapport with Oats and assistant coach Preston Murphy. He told ESPN that the relationships were the deciding factor in his choice. “I’ve got a real connection with Coach Oats and we talk a lot,” Bouie said. “He’s genuine, and Coach Murphy has been big for me too.” He credited Oats’ consistent recruiting presence—especially over the summer—as a major reason he chose Alabama. The Tide’s up-tempo offense also matched Bouie’s strengths. He praised Alabama’s transition attack and willingness to space the floor with 3-point shooting, saying the style suits his game. Bouie’s Nike EYBL numbers helped validate that fit: he averaged 17.1 points and 5.7 rebounds on the circuit. Only one official visit to Tuscaloosa was necessary for Bouie to decide. He turned down offers from Cincinnati, Georgetown, Marquette, Mississippi State, NC State, Ole Miss and Texas to join Alabama’s 2026 class. Bouie’s...