When asked about Grant Nelson’s injury designation ahead of Alabama basketball’s NCAA Tournament first-round meeting with Robert Morris, Charles Barkley did not mince words.

Before the March Madness game tipped off Friday, Alabama coach Nate Oats told the truTV broadcast that Nelson was “going to warm up, be dressed, not start the game” and be “available if needed” as he recovers from a knee injury.

On the Alabama vs. Robert Morris pregame show, Barkley voiced his displeasure with Oats’ decision.

“I hate it though,” Barkley said. “First of all, Sears, he’s terrific. But I thought Nelson was the reason why they went all the way to the final four. He was tremendous. … I don’t like when they phrase it, because, number one, if you’re going to warm up, you’re warm. Now you’re going to go back to the bench and cool off, with a leg injury, that makes no sense. They say he’s not starting, but he’s available. No. You either play or you can’t play. I think that leaves too much doubt in the player and the team. I would love for them to say if he’s just not ready, he’s not ready. Same thing about Cooper Flagg. You can never leave it up to the player. Players always want to play. A coach, you’re the leader of men. You make decisions.

Nelson was injured in Alabama’s loss to Florida in the SEC tournament and later saw a knee specialist. Oats said Nelson “dodged a bullet” when it came to how serious the injury was.

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

In 2024-25, Nelson is averaging 11.8 points and 7.6 rebounds per game.

And while Nelson could be important down the road, Barkley made it clear he doesn’t think the fifth-year forward’s availability will impact the Crimson Tide Friday.

“Alabama, no disrespect, you don’t need him to beat Robert Morris,” Barkley said.

Colin Gay covers Alabama football for The Tuscaloosa News, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach him at[email protected] or follow him@_ColinGay on X, formerly known as Twitter.