Houston Mallette Cleared for 2025-26 Season: Alabama Guard Earns NCAA Medical Redshirt
After a challenging year sidelined by injuries, former Pepperdine standout Houston Mallette is officially set to return for the Crimson Tide’s next campaign.
Alabama guard Houston Mallette, cleared for the 2025-26 season, is set to return stronger after a year of recovery and reflection. ( Source: Roll Tide Wire )
Alabama basketball guard Houston Mallette has officially been cleared by the NCAA for a medical redshirt, paving the way for his full return to action in the 2025-26 season, the university confirmed this week.
Mallette, a transfer from Pepperdine, arrived in Tuscaloosa with high expectations following a standout year in the West Coast Conference where he averaged 14.7 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game in 2023-24. However, recurring knee injuries derailed his debut season with Alabama, limiting him to just six appearances.
Despite limited minutes, Mallette made the most of his opportunities, scoring 19 points in a standout game against North Dakota and shooting 50% from beyond the arc. His season ended prematurely, but the Crimson Tide remained committed to his development, supporting his bid for a redshirt season.
👀 Alabama basketball knows who’s wearing No. 1 for the 2025-26 season.
“Houston is one of the best kids I’ve ever coached in my life,” said Alabama head coach Nate Oats. “He wanted to be here, and we wanted him with us. His character, attitude, and work ethic are exactly what this program stands for.”
Beyond his on-court setbacks, Mallette also faced personal adversity, suffering additional injuries in a separate incident at home. In an emotional interview with BamaOnLine, he expressed deep gratitude to the university’s medical staff and his family for helping him recover.
“I’m very blessed to be in this position,” Mallette shared. “It’s been hard, but I’m excited to be back with the team. God is great.”
In the span of just a few hours today, Auburn basketball's roster became crystal clear for 2025-26.
Mallette’s NCAA-approved redshirt gives him another year of eligibility, and Alabama fans can look forward to seeing the 6-foot-5 guard back on the court fully integrated with the team — especially after traveling with the squad through postseason play and building camaraderie despite his limited role.
With Alabama coming off a 28-9 season and a fourth straight Sweet 16 appearance, the return of a healthy Mallette could add significant depth and scoring power to a roster hungry for another deep tournament run.
