JUST IN: Crimson basketball superstar Labaron Philon gives clear expression why he’s withdrawing from the NBA Draft and returning to Alabama….. Read:

JUST IN: Crimson Basketball Superstar Labaron Philon Gives Clear Expression Why He’s Withdrawing From the NBA Draft and Returning to Alabama

In a decision that has stirred waves of excitement across Tuscaloosa and reignited hope among Crimson Tide faithful, Alabama basketball standout Labaron Philon announced today that he is officially withdrawing from the 2025 NBA Draft and returning for at least one more season with the Crimson Tide.

Philon, a 6-foot-4 guard who led Alabama in scoring and playmaking last season, had been projected by many as a late first-round to early second-round pick. His decision to pull out of the draft was unexpected by some analysts, but the young star made it clear in a candid statement: his heart is still in Alabama — and there’s unfinished business in Tuscaloosa.

“This is Home — and We’re Not Done Yet”

“This is where I grew up as a player,” Philon said in a press conference held at Coleman Coliseum, surrounded by teammates, coaches, and his family. “The fans, the coaches, my brothers on this team — this place means more to me than just a stepping stone to the NBA. I’ve grown so much here, and I know there’s more for me to accomplish before I take that next step.”

For Philon, it wasn’t just about his draft stock or NBA readiness. The Montgomery native pointed to personal growth, team aspirations, and loyalty to head coach Nate Oats as driving factors in his return.

“I had some good conversations with NBA teams, and I got honest feedback,” Philon said. “But more than that, I had deep talks with Coach Oats and my family. I realized that coming back could be the best thing for me — not just to improve my game, but to build something special here at Alabama.”

A Star on the Rise

Philon’s freshman season was nothing short of spectacular. Averaging 16.3 points, 4.8 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game, he was the engine behind Alabama’s high-octane offense and a major reason the Tide reached the Elite Eight. Known for his poise under pressure and ability to take over games in clutch moments, Philon quickly emerged as one of the SEC’s brightest young stars.

His decision to test the NBA Draft waters was widely expected, especially after earning All-SEC First Team honors and receiving strong interest from scouts intrigued by his explosiveness and court vision. But Philon treated the process seriously, participating in combine workouts, interviewing with teams, and reflecting deeply on the feedback he received.

“The league told me what they liked — my speed, my ability to read the floor, my leadership. But they also told me what I need to work on: strength, shooting consistency, and defending bigger guards,” Philon explained. “That feedback wasn’t discouraging. It was motivating. I see this as a challenge — and I know I can meet it by coming back and putting in the work.”

The Return of a Leader

Philon’s return is not only a personal choice; it also reshapes Alabama’s outlook heading into next season. With several key players graduating or pursuing professional opportunities, Coach Oats and the staff had faced the prospect of a partial rebuild. Now, with Philon back, the Tide retain their floor general, their leading scorer, and a potential SEC Player of the Year candidate.

“Labaron’s decision shows who he is — a competitor, a leader, and someone who believes in what we’re building,” Coach Oats said. “He’s already had a huge impact on this program, and now we get to keep building with him at the center of it.”

Oats also noted Philon’s influence off the court, praising his maturity and commitment to the team culture. “He’s the guy who stays after practice to get up extra shots, who lifts his teammates when things get tough. When your best player is also your hardest worker, that sets the tone for everyone.”

A Championship Mindset

Philon made it clear that his return isn’t just about individual growth — it’s about chasing a championship. “We were close last year,” he said, referring to Alabama’s thrilling run to the Elite Eight, where they fell to eventual national champion UConn. “But close isn’t good enough. We want a Final Four. We want to bring a title to Tuscaloosa. That’s the mission.”

He acknowledged the fans as a big part of his decision. “Bama Nation has shown me love since day one. Walking out to that roar in Coleman — that’s something you can’t replace. I want one more year of that, and I want to give them everything I’ve got.”

Looking Ahead

Philon’s return instantly puts Alabama in the conversation for a top-10 national ranking to start the 2025–26 season. With a strong incoming recruiting class and the potential for impact transfers, the Tide now have a dynamic mix of experience and youth that could make them a legitimate Final Four threat.

But beyond the rankings and preseason hype, Philon’s decision is a reminder of something rare in modern college basketball: loyalty, humility, and a willingness to delay instant gratification for the sake of something greater.

“I’ll get to the league,” Philon said with confidence. “But when I do, I want to go knowing I gave everything I had to my school, to my teammates, to the fans. That’s who I am. And that’s why I’m back.”

For Alabama, that’s more than just good news — it’s a game-changer.

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