Alabama forward Grant Nelson high-fives fans after beating Auburn at Neville Arena in Auburn, AL, on March 8, 2025.
Alabama forward Grant Nelson high-fives fans after beating Auburn at Neville Arena in Auburn, AL, on March 8, 2025.
The Brooklyn Nets signed former Alabama star Grant Nelson to a 10-day contract last Friday.
In two years with the Crimson Tide, Nelson averaged 11.7 points, 6.8 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game. He was known for his blue-collar play style and was an integral piece in the 2024 Final Four run.
It didn’t take long for the North Dakota native to make his mark, logging 3 points, four assists, one rebound and two blocks in just 10 minutes against the Celtics.
His first points came, to no surprise for Alabama fans, by way of aposter dunk over NBA veteran Luka Garza.
“It’s a dream come true,” Nelsonsaid. “I know the work’s not done. I still got a lot to work for.”
To open March, he was given more responsibility, playing 20 minutes in the Nets’ 106-102 loss to the Cavaliers.
Nelson hit 4 of 7 from the field, finishing with a new career high of 11 points. He also did his usual stat sheet-stuffing, finishing with four rebounds, four blocks and a steal.
The rookie forward became the first player in Nets history with 10-plus points, five-plus assists, and five-plus blocks across his first two career games. He’s also the first player in NBA history to accomplish this feat in less than 59 minutes, playing just 29:52.
In his third game, Nelson saw a decreased role, playing only three minutes. He did manage to get to the free-throw line twice, hitting 3 of 4 to finish the night.
“I think Grant’s a very versatile player,”said Brooklyn star Michael Porter Jr. “He got out in transition, he can push the ball, so I think he’s a good young player.”
Through his first three career games, Nelson averaged 5.6 points, two rebounds, 1.6 assists and 1.6 blocks in just 11 minutes per game.
It is unknown if Nelson will get signed through the remainder of the season, but he’s done his part by earning minutes and playing well in them.
“He’s a very good player, high IQ, he’s got a great feel for the game, and plays extremely hard,”said Nets head coach Jordi Fernández. “So, you put all those things together, and he’s played very well in the two chances.”
Nelson and the Nets will be back in action Thursday against the Miami Heat. Tip is set for 6:30 p.m. CT on FanDuel Sports Network.