The lack of Central High students at UA seems likely related to test scores and/or affordability.
And I doubt Greek-related “mini-scandals” has much to do with it. The rest of the state, especially high schools in more affluent pockets? Maybe, but I think the Greek scandals hurt UA’s appeal nationally more so than locally. If anything, I’ve always thought UA’s focus on a national reputation and student body may have hurt its appeal to Alabamians who are concerned its lost much of its “Southernness” (for lack of a better word).