Alabama native Colben Landrew selected for USA 18U national team

Alabama native Colben Landrew has officially been named to the 2026 USA men’s basketball U18 national team. The roster, which includes just 12 athletes, was selected from an initial pool of 32 finalists, as announced by USA Basketball this past Wednesday.

International Stage Awaits

The squad is heading to Leon, Mexico, for the 2026 FIBA U18 Men’s AmeriCup, with competition scheduled from June 1 to 7. Team USA is set to kick off Group A play against Argentina on Monday, June 1, at 6:30 p.m. CST.

Expert Leadership

The national team will be guided by former Alabama head coach and current Dayton coach Anthony Grant. He will be joined on the staff by Alabama head coach Nate Oats and Colgate coach Matt Langel, who will serve as assistants.

A Rising Star

Landrew, an Alabaster native and future UConn Husky, has been a standout force on the hardwood. During his senior campaign at Wheeler (Ga.) High School, he helped lead the team to a GHSA Class 6A title, securing a 62-52 championship victory over Pebblebrook. Earlier in the season, he made a triumphant return to his home state, dropping 23 points and six rebounds in a 57-52 win over Knox-Webb (Tenn.) at Huntsville High School.

Alabama Roots

Before his move to Georgia, Landrew made a major impact at Thompson High School. As a sophomore, he was named the Birmingham News Newcomer of the Year, averaging 15 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 2 assists per game to earn Class 7A all-state honors. He finished his Thompson career by leading the Warriors to a Class 7A Northwest Regional appearance, contributing 17 points in his final game with the team against Hoover.