**Labaron Philon’s Back — and So Is Alabama’s Swagger**
For the past two months, Alabama basketball fans have been holding their breath, waiting to see if star point guard Labaron Philon would head to the NBA or come back for another season in Tuscaloosa. The uncertainty was real — would he turn pro? Would another school swoop in with a better NIL deal? And if he left, what was Alabama’s plan?
Coach Nate Oats kept his options open, checking out other point guards and even dabbling in the transfer portal for a combo guard. But deep down, it always felt like he was ready to roll with whoever stuck around.
Well, it’s official: *Philon is staying*.
After weeks of top underclassmen pulling out of the NBA Draft, Philon was the last big name still in the mix. Now, he’s out too — and coming back to Alabama for his sophomore year. The news was first reported by Alabama’s NIL collective, Yea Alabama.
“I learned a lot during the draft process,” Philon said. “But after thinking it over, I’m excited to be back at Alabama. Roll Tide!”
The Mobile native had a standout freshman season, playing in all 37 games and quickly becoming one of the SEC’s top young guards. He averaged 10.6 points, 3.8 assists, 3.3 rebounds, and racked up a team-high 50 steals. Simply put, this is *huge* for Alabama.
Without a true veteran point guard, Alabama was projected to be a solid team next year — good, but maybe not great. Philon changes all that.
He gives Alabama size in the backcourt (he’s over 6’3”), lockdown defense, and serious playmaking. His assist-to-turnover ratio (3:1) was elite for a freshman. He can push the pace, break down defenders, finish at the rim, and get his own shot when needed.
Most importantly? The Tide won’t be forced to run another undersized PG or shuffle a combo guard into an unnatural fit.
Philon’s return opens up a world of possibilities for Alabama in 2026. Preseason predictions just got thrown out the window. And honestly? Outside of Boogie Fland heading to Florida, this might be *the* biggest move of the offseason for any team in college hoops.
Let’s just say it: **Bama’s back in business.**
**Roll Tide.**
The Comeback Nobody Saw Coming: Labaron Philon Rewinds the Script and Heads Back to Bama 🎬
