Labaron Philon, a freshman guard from Alabama, has officially set his sights on the 2025 NBA Draft, closing the door on a return to the Crimson Tide. This decision, announced yesterday, marks the end of a short but impactful college career for the Mobile, Alabama native.
After a season where he averaged 10.6 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists while starting in 29 of Alabama’s 37 games, Philon is ready to take his talents to the pros. ESPN is projecting him as a second-round pick.
Philon’s Journey to the NBA Draft Spotlight
Before diving into his potential NBA homes, it’s worth understanding Philon’s path. The 6’4” guard had a winding road to Alabama. Initially committed to Auburn, he flipped to Kansas while recruiting out of Link Academy in Missouri, where he was a four-star prospect ranked No. 35 overall in the 2024 class by On3.
But Kansas coach Bill Self’s heavy use of the transfer portal left Philon back on the market, and Alabama’s Nate Oats swooped in to bring the in-state talent to Tuscaloosa. Philon made an immediate impact, earning three SEC Freshman of the Week honors and becoming a defensive pest, often tasked with guarding the opponent’s best player. His season culminated in an Elite Eight run for Alabama, though they fell to Duke.
NEWS: Star freshman guard Labaron Philon is remaining in the NBA Draft and will not return to Alabama.
(h/t @jeffborzello) https://t.co/8StlH2110e pic.twitter.com/odFrr1e4vz
— On3 (@On3sports) May 14, 2025
1. Brooklyn Nets
ESPN’s latest mock draft has Philon landing with the Brooklyn Nets at pick No. 36, and it’s easy to see why this fit makes sense. The Nets are in a rebuilding phase after trading away their star core, focusing on young talent to build around.
2. Houston Rockets
The Houston Rockets, who hold multiple picks in the 2025 draft, could be another landing spot for Philon, especially if he slips into the late second round. Houston’s roster is already packed with young talent like Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun, but their backcourt could use a playmaker with Philon’s creativity.
3. San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs, fresh off moving up to the No. 2 pick in the 2025 draft lottery, are building around a generational talent in Victor Wembanyama. While they’re likely to target a top-tier prospect like Nolan Traore with that high pick, they also hold later selections where Philon could come into play.
4. Miami Heat
Miami, a team known for finding gems in the draft, could be an intriguing destination for Philon. After losing their lottery-protected first-round pick to Oklahoma City, the Heat acquired a late pick via a trade involving Jimmy Butler, as noted in ESPN’s draft coverage.
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5. Oklahoma City Thunder
The Thunder, with multiple first-round picks in 2025, are in a unique position to take a flyer on a player like Philon in the second round. Oklahoma City’s roster is already crowded with 14 players expected to be under contract next season, per ESPN, but their G League affiliate, the OKC Blue, offers a perfect developmental path.
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