In a surprising twist just before the NCAA’s early entrant withdrawal deadline, Alabama guard Labaron Philon has officially pulled out of the 2025 NBA Draft and announced his return to Tuscaloosa for the 2025–26 college basketball season. The announcement, made via Instagram, represents a major reversal from Philon’s previous public stance—and a big win for Nate Oats and the Crimson Tide.

 

Philon had been widely expected to remain in the draft after stating just two weeks ago that he was “all-in” on beginning his professional career. Reports at the time indicated that he had informed Alabama’s coaching staff of his intention not to return, making Wednesday’s decision a surprising eleventh-hour change.

 

The freshman guard was one of Alabama’s most productive newcomers last season, earning a starting role in 29 of the team’s 37 games. He was a key part of Alabama’s run to the Final Four, showcasing his ability as both a playmaker and defender in high-pressure situations.

 

Philon’s season averages of 10.6 points, 3.8 assists, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game highlighted his well-rounded game. He shot 45.2% from the field, 31.5% from three-point range, and 76.7% from the free-throw line—solid numbers that put him on the NBA radar, but left room for improvement in key areas like shooting consistency and strength.

 

His performance earned him a spot on the SEC’s All-Freshman Team and projected him as the No. 33 overall pick in ESPN’s latest mock draft. That positioning placed him just outside of guaranteed first-round status, making his decision to return a calculated move to raise his stock.

 

By returning to college, Philon gives himself a chance to improve his shooting percentages, grow as a leader, and solidify his status as a potential first-round pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. With an additional year under Nate Oats’ high-tempo system, Philon could become one of the most dynamic guards in the country.

 

For Alabama, the news is a major boost. Philon was one of the most promising pieces in their backcourt, and his return ensures continuity as the program looks to build on last season’s success. With his experience and talent, he could emerge as a centerpiece for a title-contending team next year.

 

Philon’s decision also reflects a growing trend among college players who are testing the NBA waters but opting to return to school when they don’t receive firm first-round guarantees. The new NIL landscape has also made staying in college more viable for top players who can now earn competitive compensation while developing their games.

 

He joins a growing list of prospects who chose to withdraw before the NCAA deadline. Notre Dame’s Kebba Njie also announced his return after averaging 6.1 points and 5.9 rebounds as a junior, providing the Fighting Irish with a valuable interior presence for one more season.

 

Still, not all draft decisions are finalized. For example, Montana guard Money Williams had declared his return in March but has yet to officially withdraw from the draft pool. Until confirmation arrives, he remains in the “testing the waters” category of draft trackers.

 

The NCAA’s early entrant deadline has now passed, but the NBA’s official draft withdrawal deadline—primarily affecting international players—falls on June 15. That will be the final opportunity for any remaining undecided prospects to pull their names.

 

As for Philon, the focus now turns to what’s next in Tuscaloosa. With another year of development, a bigger role, and the spotlight of a top-10 program, he could very well go from borderline pick to NBA lottery conversation in 2026.