After Willard exited Maryland to accept the open head coaching position with Villanova, there were reports linking Oats to the Terrapins. However, Alabama athletic director Greg Byrne also refuted the notion that Oats was going anywhere, saying during an appearance on The Will Cain Show, "I could absolutely tell you there's no truth to that."

Although there were moments when the game seemed within reach, Cooper Flagg and Duke were simply too much to handle. Alabama went on to lose 85-65, as their shooting stroke evaded them, going just 8-of-32 (25%) from deep and 23-of-65 (35.4%) from the field.

Per college hoops insider Jeff Goodman, Oats has “no interest in the vacant Maryland job,” despite some recent rumors linking him with the Terrapins after coach Kevin Willard left for Villanova: