Alabama adjusts transfer portal strategy after Labaron Philon’s NBA Draft decision

Alabama got some big news late Wednesday night.

In the final hours of deadline day to maintain college eligibility, Labaron Philon announced that he is withdrawing from the NBA Draft to play for the Alabama Crimson Tide in 2025-26. He shared the news via Yea Alabama.

I am thankful for all the support from my family, friends and Alabama throughout this process,” Philon said. “I learned a lot throughout the NBA Draft process and received a lot of great feedback. After careful consideration, I am happy to announce that I will be returning to Alabama for my sophomore season! Roll Tide!

Philon returns to UA after a standout freshman season. He appeared in all 37 games, averaging 10.6 points per game, 3.3 rebounds, 3.8 assists while leading the Tide with 50 steals.

With Philon back in the fold, Nate Oats has reportedly called off the recruitment of a big name in the transfer portal. Per Joe Tipton of On3, Alabama is not expected to continue pursuing USC transfer Desmond Claude.

Following the return of Labaron Philon, Alabama is not expected to continue its pursuit of USC transfer Desmond Claude, a source told @On3sports. https://t.co/QY4rABfK0g

— Joe Tipton (@TiptonEdits) May 29, 2025

Claude had been looking at Alabama as a potential transfer destination while also considering Tennessee, Oregon, Gonzaga and SMU.

Andrew Olson

Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaigns of Fred Taylor and Andruw Jones.