Alabama Rings In Verbal From Five-Time Kansas 6A State Champ Drayden Bell For 2022

NEW COMMIT: The University of Alabama has picked up their third verbal commitment for the 2022-23 season and beyond from Drayden Bell of Wichita, Kansas.

He will join Connor Little and John Hayes in Tuscaloosa at the start of the 2022-23 season.

Regarding his commitment, he said:

“I’m extremely excited to announce my verbal commitment to continue my athletic and academic career at the University of Alabama! I want to thank all of my family, friends, coaches for helping me with this decision. And I want to thank God for getting me this far. Can’t wait for this next chapter in my life! ROLL TIDE! ?⚪️?.”

A talented sprinter, Bell trains year-round with Wichita Swim Club and earned four best times at the NCSA Championships in March where his highest finish was a seventh-place showing in the 50 free. He also had a great showing at the 18&U Winter Championships in December and posted three top-8 finishes at the Missouri Valley Championships in 2020.

His best times include:

50 free – 20.10
100 free – 45.16
50 back – 22.72
100 back – 49.24
50 breast – 25.63
100 breast – 56.85

Currently a junior at Wichita East High School, Bell is a six-time individual Kansas 6A State Championship finalist. He swept the 50/100 free in 2020 and 2021 while taking first and second, respectively, in those events during his freshman season.

He has also earned USA Swimming Scholastic All-American honors twice in his career thus far for his efforts in both the pool and classroom.

Margo Geer will replace Coley Stickels as head coach after the 2021 Olympic Games.

If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.

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