Alabama Center Collins Onyejiaka Sits Out Exhibition
The 6-foot-11 forward remained sidelined during the team exhibition against Auburn.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Basketball
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Alabama basketball center Collins Onyejiaka did not play during the exhibition game against Auburn on October 22, 2026. The 6-foot-11 player appeared in street clothes after exiting practice earlier in the week.
Why it matters
Onyejiaka remains a critical frontcourt piece for Alabama after working his way back from a heart condition that sidelined him for most of the previous season. His availability is central to the team depth as they prepare to open their 2026-27 regular season campaign.
Onyejiaka stands 6-foot-11 and logged appearances in only 2 games during the 2025-26 season. He was previously ruled out indefinitely in November 2025 before receiving medical clearance on October 8, 2026.
The players
Collins Onyejiaka
He is a 6-foot-11 basketball center for the University of Alabama who has navigated multiple medical recovery processes.
Nate Oats
He is the head coach of the University of Alabama men's basketball team who has managed Onyejiaka's playing status throughout his recovery.
The details
Onyejiaka exited practice on October 19, 2026, after completing a lob dunk, with reports citing an apparent back injury. This follows a lengthy recovery process involving procedures for a heart condition that limited his action last year.
Timeline
November 2025: Onyejiaka was ruled out indefinitely for a heart condition.
October 8, 2026: The center was medically cleared to return to play.
October 19, 2026: Onyejiaka left practice with an apparent back injury.
October 22, 2026: The player remained on the bench for the exhibition game against Auburn.
Season Trajectory
This development impacts Alabama's frontcourt rotation as the team integrates key personnel ahead of the regular season opener against Sam Houston. The depth of the roster depends on Onyejiaka's ability to maintain health following his return from extended medical leave.
The absence of Onyejiaka forces a shift in rotation depth for Alabama ahead of their November 3 season opener. His status directly affects the defensive and rebounding alignment for upcoming non-conference matchups.
The takeaway
Maintaining player health throughout the long collegiate schedule remains the primary focus for coaching staffs before conference play begins. Fans should monitor official depth chart releases leading up to the November opener for updates on rotation changes.
What happens next
Alabama opens the 2026-27 regular season against Sam Houston on November 3.
Further reading
For more on the current team status, visit Tuscaloosa Basketball.
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