Tuscaloosa, AL – Alabama men’s basketball star Labaron Philon is listed as questionable for Wednesday night’s game against Mississippi State, according to an SEC availability report released Tuesday. The sophomore guard has been dealing with a nagging thigh-groin injury throughout the 2025-26 season.
Alabama head coach Nate Oats has acknowledged Philon’s health concerns but has not specified the nature of the injury. During a press conference prior to the release of the SEC report, Oats indicated Philon was “working towards 100%,” but offered no definitive timeline for his return to full strength.
Philon was previously listed as questionable ahead of the February 7th game against Auburn, ultimately being a game-time decision. He played in that contest, but his performance has been inconsistent recently. In Saturday’s 90-83 win over LSU, Philon scored a season-low eight points on 2-of-8 shooting, appearing limited on the court.
The Crimson Tide’s coaching staff appears to be preparing for the possibility of playing without Philon. Oats has emphasized the importance of sophomore Jalil Bethea during recent media appearances, seemingly in anticipation of increased playing time for the Miami transfer. Should Philon be unable to play, Alabama is expected to start Aden Holloway and Latrell Wrightsell in the backcourt.
Despite Philon’s uncertain status, Alabama remains a significant favorite in Wednesday’s matchup, currently favored by 15.5 points on FanDuel. Mississippi State, however, possesses a potent offensive threat in guard Josh Hubbard.
Philon previously missed a game on December 29th against Yale due to a thigh and groin contusion. He has otherwise been a consistent presence in the lineup despite what Oats has described as “bumps and bruises” throughout the season, including a thigh bone bruise in January and cramping during a game against Texas A&M.
Alabama will face Mississippi State at 8 p.m. CT Wednesday on ESPNU. The game is one of four remaining regular-season contests before the SEC Tournament, with upcoming games scheduled at Tennessee and Georgia, and a home game against Auburn.
