Labaron Philon’s Return to Alabama Sends Shockwaves Through Way-Too-Early Top 25 Rankings
As the dust settles from the chaos of the NBA Draft withdrawal deadline, few stories have made as loud a statement as Labaron Philon’s surprise decision to return to the University of Alabama. Once considered a lock to keep his name in the 2025 NBA Draft pool, Philon’s about-face in the final minutes before the May 28 deadline didn’t just reshape the Crimson Tide’s upcoming season — it completely shifted the landscape of college basketball’s way-too-early rankings.
Coming off a 28–9 season that ended in the Elite Eight at the hands of Duke, Alabama was poised to face a period of uncertainty. With multiple key players departing and Philon seemingly gone, projections for Nate Oats’ squad began to slide. Some outlets dropped them from the Top 25 altogether. The narrative was clear: without their freshman phenom, Alabama was staring at a likely rebuilding season.
Then, everything changed.
The Decision That Changed It All
On April 28, Philon declared for the NBA Draft, following a standout freshman year and a promising showing at the combine. By all accounts — and by his own words — the guard had closed the door on a college return. Scouts liked his upside. Coaches praised his poise. NBA execs took notice.
And then, just minutes before the withdrawal deadline, Philon stunned the basketball world by announcing he would return for his sophomore season at Alabama.
The implications were immediate and dramatic. The Crimson Tide went from being on the fringes of relevance to a projected contender once again. Media outlets scrambled to revise their way-too-early Top 25 lists — and Alabama was back in the conversation.
How the Rankings Shifted
According to a roundup by The Field of 68’s Matt Miller, six major outlets updated their Top 25 rankings in response to the draft deadline decisions. Alabama’s leap was among the most notable.
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ESPN elevated the Tide from No. 24 to No. 17, calling Alabama “one of the big winners of the withdrawal deadline.” Analyst Jeff Borzello emphasized how Philon’s return gave Alabama a desperately needed perimeter playmaker to anchor their offense.
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CBS Sports moved Alabama up to No. 14 from a previous No. 24, with Gary Parrish highlighting the trio of returning scorers — Philon, Latrell Wrightsell Jr., and Aden Holloway — as the backbone of a potential Final Four team.
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The Athletic, which had previously left Alabama unranked, now lists them at No. 23, with CJ Moore writing that Philon “changes the equation” for the Crimson Tide and praising his ability to create in the paint and take pressure off his teammates.
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Field of 68 kept Alabama at No. 15, consistent with previous rankings, but acknowledged Philon’s return solidified that status.
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College Hoops Today held firm at No. 16, but with Philon’s return now official, expectations surrounding that ranking carry more weight.
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Sports Illustrated was the lone outlet to drop Alabama from their rankings, listing them as “Next Up” after previously ranking them No. 17. However, their earlier list was made prior to Philon’s announcement — and an updated list may soon follow.
Notably, in the consensus Top 25 compiled from these outlets, Alabama tied with Kansas at No. 18, placing them firmly among the elite programs heading into 2025.
Why Philon Matters So Much
Labaron Philon’s freshman year was a revelation. Explosive yet composed, creative yet efficient, Philon averaged double digits in points and delivered in clutch moments. His basketball IQ, perimeter scoring, and willingness to shoulder responsibility made him the heartbeat of Alabama’s offense.
And now he’s back.
Philon’s return gives Nate Oats something invaluable — continuity. It allows the Crimson Tide to field a veteran backcourt alongside Holloway and a healthy Wrightsell Jr., forming a dynamic and versatile trio. Add in Jalil Bethea — a former five-star prospect transferring from Miami — and Alabama suddenly has one of the most promising guard rotations in the country.
Down low, questions remain, but the pieces are there. Noah Williamson, the reigning Patriot League Player of the Year, brings production and maturity. Florida State transfer Taylor Bol Bowen adds length and skill. Freshmen like Aiden Sherrell have room to grow but could become key contributors with Philon drawing defensive attention.
Rewriting the Narrative
Before Philon’s return, most analysts predicted a drop-off in Tuscaloosa. The departure of star talent and underwhelming early transfer pickups led many to believe that Alabama’s 2024–25 campaign would be one of regrouping, not contending.
But elite programs find a way to stay relevant, and great players don’t just elevate their own games — they raise the ceiling for everyone around them. That’s what Philon does. His decision to come back doesn’t just add stats; it restores belief.
Alabama may still have some gaps to fill and chemistry to build. But with Philon back in uniform, the Crimson Tide’s ambitions can remain sky-high. A run to the Final Four isn’t just a dream — it’s back on the table.
Looking Ahead
With preseason training around the corner, the buzz in Tuscaloosa is building. Coach Nate Oats has weathered roster transitions before, but this time, he gets to do so with a star who knows the system, embraces the spotlight, and thrives under pressure.
Labaron Philon’s late withdrawal from the NBA Draft wasn’t just a personal decision — it was a program-altering moment. Alabama fans should be excited. The nation should be on notice. And the rankings?
They’ve already spoken.
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