OMAHA, Neb. − Alabama baseball's Justin Lebron is among the elite talents competing at the College World Series, a key performer for the Crimson Tide both offensively and defensively. A junior from Miramar, Fla., Lebron (6-foot-2, 190 pounds) has been a three-year starter for UA at the shortstop position.

The Crimson Tide (42-19) is enjoying its best season since Lebron joined the program in 2024, reaching the CWS for the first time since 1999. Since a blowout loss to Florida, 13-3, in its first SEC Tournament game, UA has gone 5-0 in the NCAA postseason to reach the eight-team CWS.

Here are three things to know about Lebron.

Justin Lebron is Alabama baseball's top MLB prospect

Lebron is expected to be a first-round selection later this summer in the Major League Baseball draft. Besides his smooth glovework at the premium defensive position of shortstop, he's also a major stolen base threat, and displays impressive home-run power as well. He leads the Crimson Tide in home runs with 16, and in stolen bases with 40; he's been caught stealing once all season. He currently ranks as the No. 9 overall prospect in the draft.

Justin Lebron is inspired by a special-needs brother

Lebron's younger brother, Jayden, lives with Williams syndrome, a rare genetic condition that affects brain development. As a resulting complication, the 19-year-old also had heart surgery as a baby. Jayden has been an important part of Justin's baseball career as one of his biggest fans. Lebron, in turn, draws inspiration from his brother, and even honors him with custom cleats.

Justin Lebron is less than a month removed from a scary collision

Lebron was injured in a collision at first base during the Crimson Tide's regular-season series against South Carolina. He entered concussion protocol, but returned a week later against Ole Miss. In his first at-bat against the Rebels, he homered.

INSPIRED: How brother's journey with Williams syndrome drives Alabama baseball's Justin Lebron

PREDICTIONS: Can Alabama baseball make College World Series run?

Reach Tuscaloosa News columnist Chase Goodbread at cgoodbread@gannett.com. Follow on X @chasegoodbread.

This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: Alabama baseball SS Justin Lebron at College World Series, 3 things to know