Alabama Basketball Star Arrested for Marijuana Possession

Aden Holloway, the Crimson Tide's No. 2 scorer, faces felony charges after police found 2.1 pounds of marijuana in his apartment.

Mar. 18, 2026 at 12:58am

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Authorities arrested Alabama basketball player Aden Holloway after finding 2.1 pounds of marijuana in his Tuscaloosa apartment. Holloway, the Crimson Tide's second-leading scorer, has been suspended indefinitely from the team as he faces a felony charge of first-degree marijuana possession, which carries a penalty of up to 10 years in prison and a $15,000 fine.

Why it matters

Holloway's arrest comes just before the NCAA Tournament, where Alabama is a No. 4 seed. His suspension is a major blow to the team's chances, as they will be down to nine scholarship players for the opening round game against Hofstra. The incident also raises questions about drug use and discipline within the program.

The details

According to court records, police found the marijuana in Holloway's apartment after executing a search warrant. The total weight of 964 grams (2.1 pounds) was just below the 2.2-pound threshold for a drug trafficking charge. Holloway's attorney claims there is no proof he was selling the drugs, but the first-degree possession charge indicates the marijuana was not for personal use.

  • Holloway was arrested on Monday, March 18, 2026.
  • Alabama is scheduled to play Hofstra in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 22, 2026.

The players

Aden Holloway

Alabama basketball player and the team's second-leading scorer, who was arrested for felony marijuana possession.

Jason Neff

Holloway's attorney, who claims there is no proof his client was selling the drugs.

Nate Oats

Alabama's head basketball coach, who said the team is preparing to play without Holloway in the NCAA Tournament.

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What they’re saying

“He has no criminal history. If he were to plead out or even go to trial, the judge could give him probation. It is a felony. For a 21-year-old man trying to get through college and get to the NBA, a felony issue could be a major issue long term.”

— Jason Neff, Holloway's attorney

“We've got standards in our program and ways we've held our guys accountable. We're certainly disappointed in his behavior. That being said, we still love him. He's still our guy and we're helping him get the help that he needs and we're going to help him in any way that we can.”

— Nate Oats, Alabama head basketball coach

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Aden Holloway out on bail.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the challenges college athletes face in navigating drug laws and team discipline, with Holloway's potential NBA career now in jeopardy due to the felony charge. It also raises questions about the university's approach to player accountability and support.