By Elijah Farley
Staff Writer

Luke “Fluffopotamus” Ratliff, an Alabama superfan, was someone who has been there since day one for the Alabama Crimson Tide men’s basketball team.

He would be in the arena hours before tipoff, setting up for the homestand series. Fluff was not just known for being a super fan but also his plaid flannel. His devastating passing came right after the long-awaited trip to March Madness just weeks prior in Indiana.

One of Luke’s best friends was distraught following their return home.

“Luke was my best friend, my brother, my mentor for all the things Bama sports. His legacy surpassed far beyond the local Tuscaloosa community,” said Eleni Curry.  “Fluff nation suffered from COVID-19, and it hit him hard. He was taken to soon. But his legacy will live forever.”

Over the course of the last three years at the Capstone, they traveled the nation together every season, visiting every venue in the Southeastern Conference to watch the Crimson Tide take on some of its toughest opponents. They even caught the team’s historic post-season title run.

“Fluff will always be remembered as an Alabama legend. When we come to honor his legacy at his favorite place, Coleman Coliseum, his plaid flannel will be retired in the rafters of the arena just above the student section. He captured the hearts of thousands nationwide and his infectious spirt will live on forever. May he rest in peace,’’ Curry said.