Alabama men’s basketball coach Nate Oats has identified Labaron Philon as a potential assistant coach, signaling a possible key addition to his staff ahead of the 2024-25 season. The move comes as Oats seeks to bolster his coaching ranks following a season marked by both on-court success and off-court scrutiny.
Philon, a former Alabama guard who played under Oats from 2021-2023, brings a unique perspective and familiarity wiht the program’s culture. His potential hiring is particularly noteworthy given Oats’ recent need to reshape his coaching staff after the dismissal of assistant coach Austin Clark in January 2024 following allegations of improper financial arrangements with players. Adding Philon would provide Oats with a coach who understands the expectations and demands of playing for the Crimson Tide.
Oats publicly discussed Philon’s candidacy during a recent radio appearance, stating that Philon is “a really good basketball mind” and someone he has “a lot of confidence in.” He further emphasized Philon’s understanding of the program’s offensive and defensive systems, making him a natural fit for the assistant coach role.
Philon’s playing career at Alabama saw him average 8.6 points and 3.2 assists over 65 games. He transferred to Texas A&M for his final season, where he averaged 12.7 points and 4.5 assists. His experience as a player at both the Power Five level and within Oats’ system positions him as a potentially valuable asset in recruiting and player development.
The addition of Philon would not only fill a vacancy on the coaching staff but also offer a visible connection to the program’s recent success. As Oats navigates the challenges of maintaining a competitive program amidst evolving NCAA regulations and heightened scrutiny, surrounding himself with individuals who understand and embody the program’s values will be crucial. The formal announcement of Philon’s hiring is pending, but his emergence as a leading candidate represents a notable step in Oats’ efforts to rebuild and reinforce his coaching team.