As Alabama's basketball season wraps up, the spotlight turns to some key Crimson Tide players facing pivotal decisions.
Labaron Philon is widely expected to declare for the NBA draft, likely securing a lottery pick spot. However, the futures of Aiden Sherrell and Amari Allen remain less certain.
Allen, heading into his sophomore year in the 2026-27 season, has made waves and entered the draft conversation. Sherrell, poised to become a junior, could be a hot commodity in the transfer portal, especially as a talented big man still unlocking his full potential.
After Alabama's Sweet 16 exit against Michigan, both players were asked about their plans for next season.
Sherrell responded with a tentative, "As of right now, yeah," indicating a possible return.
Allen, on the other hand, expressed a strong desire to stay: "The only place I want to be is Bama," he said. "I’m going to be right back here next year unless my agent thinks it’s best to go to the NBA.
That’s the main goal. Whatever he decides.
If not, I’ll be right back here next year."
Sherrell has been a cornerstone of Alabama’s front court, clocking in 23.6 minutes per game and averaging 11.2 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks in his sophomore season. Despite limited depth behind him, he has shown significant promise.
Meanwhile, Allen has quickly risen to prominence in his freshman year, starting 23 games and averaging 11.6 points, seven rebounds, and 3.1 assists, with a 35.1% shooting accuracy from beyond the arc. His defensive skills were put to the test against Michigan's star, Yaxel Lendeborg, in the Sweet 16.
Both players are crucial to Alabama’s plans for the upcoming season, should they choose to stay. However, Allen's potential as a first-round draft pick might lead him to the NBA sooner rather than later.