Alabama basketball guard Aden Holloway was taken into custody Monday after law enforcement officers discovered more than two pounds of marijuana during a search of his residence, according to ESPN reporting based on court documents filed Tuesday.
The 21-year-old junior now faces serious felony drug charges just four days ahead of Alabama’s first NCAA Tournament matchup against 13th-seeded Hofstra scheduled for Friday in Tampa, Florida. The Crimson Tide earned the fourth seed in the Midwest Region bracket.
University officials announced Monday evening that Holloway has been “removed from campus” and will not travel with the basketball team while an investigation proceeds.
The cannabis seized during the search weighed nearly one kilogram at 2.1 pounds, falling just 0.1 pounds below Alabama’s threshold for drug trafficking charges, which begin at 2.2 pounds.
According to ESPN’s report, investigators found marijuana scattered throughout multiple areas of the residence, including inside a backpack, luggage, within a television entertainment center, and stored in a bedroom dresser drawer. Officers also seized cash, unprescribed sedative medication, drug paraphernalia for rolling, and materials used for packaging.
During questioning, Holloway told authorities he “only smokes” the substance and does not engage in selling drugs, ESPN reported.
The junior guard was formally charged with first-degree marijuana possession not intended for personal use, classified as a Class C felony in Alabama. Additionally, he received charges for failing to affix a required tax stamp, which represents a second felony count. After posting $5,000 bond, Holloway was released from custody Monday morning.
The tax stamp violation stems from Alabama law requiring individuals who distribute, sell, or transfer controlled substances to pay specific taxes on those transactions.
Each felony count carries potential penalties of up to 10 years imprisonment and $15,000 in fines if Holloway is ultimately convicted.
Head coach Nate Oats discussed the situation during his Monday evening radio program.
“We’re certainly disappointed in his behavior. But that being said, we still love him, he’s still our guy,” Oats stated. “We’re helping him get the help that he needs and we’re going to continue to help him whatever way we can. But as far as our team goes, I thought we had a great practice. We’re preparing to play without him this weekend.”
