On Friday, the basketball world was sent into a frenzy with the news that NBA free agent LeBron James was signing with the Philadelphia 76ers, per ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Among the greatest players in NBA history, James’ reported signing is one that immediately put the spotlight on the Sixers’ projected 2026-27 roster. On that roster is a name familiar to Alabama basketball fans in Labaron Philon Jr., a former Crimson Tide guard whom Philadelphia recently selected in the first round of the 2026 NBA draft.
Set to enter his rookie season this upcoming fall, Philon will now look to make an impact for a Philadelphia team that is likely to be among the preseason favorites to win a NBA title this upcoming season. However, just how big of an impact could that be, and did Philadelphia’s reported signing of James change that in any way?
Prior to the Sixers’ signing of James, Philon projected as Philadelphia’s backup point guard, and that role will likely not change following Friday’s reported news. Philon will be the backup to starter Tyrese Maxey.
However, what does remain a question is just how much minutes Philon sees a game, as the former Alabama star is set to join a loaded Sixers backcourt. Not only is Philon behind Maxey, a two-time All-Star and 25+ points per game scorer, on the depth chart, but Philadelphia also has VJ Edgecombe and Anfernee Simons, though both are likely to see a majority of action at the two-guard.
Philon could also play off-ball occasionally when on the floor with James in particular, a role he could also excel in after shooting 39.9% shooting from three this past season at Alabama.
The former Crimson Tide guard racked up numerous honors this past season at Alabama, averaging 22 points per game. Having recently concluded NBA Summer League play, Philon’s next on-court appearance with Philadelphia will come in a couple of months with the start of training camp.
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This article originally appeared on Roll Tide Wire: How LeBron James signing impacts Labaron Philon’s NBA rookie season
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