​Former Alabama guard Labaron Philon wasted no time showing why the Philadelphia 76ers believed he was worth a first-round pick. In his NBA Summer League debut in Las Vegas on Thursday, Philon delivered an impressive all-around performance, finishing with 18 points and seven assists to help lead the 76ers to a 101-93 victory over the Detroit Pistons. It was exactly the kind of debut Alabama fans have come to expect from the talented guard, who consistently stepped up in big moments during his time in Tuscaloosa.
While the box score wasn’t perfect, the confidence certainly was. Philon connected on six of his 19 attempts, including four three-pointers on 10 attempts from beyond the arc. His willingness to keep shooting despite a few early misses is one of the traits that made him such an exciting player at Alabama. He never lets one possession dictate the next, and that aggressive mindset was on full display in his first professional game.
Scoring wasn’t the only way Philon impacted the game, either. The former Crimson Tide standout also dished out seven assists, showcasing the playmaking ability that NBA scouts raved about throughout the draft process. Whether he was creating his own shot or setting up teammates for easy baskets, Philon looked comfortable running the offense and playing at the pace the 76ers want to play.
Philadelphia had balanced production across the roster, with five players finishing in double figures, but Philon’s offensive spark stood out. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting while also creating opportunities for others gave the Sixers another dynamic weapon throughout the afternoon.
For Alabama fans, the performance shouldn’t come as much of a surprise. Under Nate Oats, Philon developed into one of the most electric young guards in college basketball. His speed, confidence, and ability to score at all three levels made him a difficult matchup throughout the season, and those same skills translated well against NBA competition in his first Summer League appearance.
Of course, Summer League is just the beginning. There will be growing pains, adjustments, and tougher competition ahead. But first impressions matter, and Philon certainly made a strong one. Showing the ability to score 18 points while also facilitating the offense is an encouraging sign for both the 76ers and Alabama fans eager to watch another former Crimson Tide player succeed at the next level.
Philadelphia will be back on the floor Saturday when it takes on the Indiana Pacers in its second Summer League contest. It will be another opportunity for Philon to continue building confidence, earn valuable minutes, and show why he has the tools to become an important piece of the Sixers’ future.
If his debut was any indication, Labaron Philon is just getting started, and Alabama fans will have plenty of reasons to keep tuning in as he continues to develop in the NBA.