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Florida Gators = NBA factory? ESPN thinks so

79417-removebg-preview (1)by: Corey Bender8 hours agoCorey_Bender
Florida-Gators-Thomas-Haugh
Florida Gators forward Thomas Haugh (10) makes a basket during the first half against the Norfolk State Spartans at Lenovo Center. (Bob Donnan-Imagn Images)

The Florida Gators are only off to a 1-1 start this season, but they are already drawing attention for more than just wins and losses.

That’s because ESPN’s Jeremy Woo recently ranked Florida sixth in his feature “10 college basketball teams with the most NBA prospects.” According to ESPN’s NBA draft big board, those Gators are Thomas Haugh (No. 14 overall), Alex Condon (No. 29), Boogie Fland (No. 54), Xaivian Lee (No. 86) and CJ Ingram.

Florida returns key pieces from its 2024-25 national championship team while adding transfers to strengthen the backcourt. With multiple players on NBA radars, the Gators look poised to compete at a high level again under head coach Todd Golden.

Florida Gators Football Coaching Hot Board

What ESPN is saying about Florida and the NBA Draft

“Florida should have more than enough on the roster to mount a proper title defense after retooling the backcourt with transfers Fland and Lee,” said ESPN.

“Haugh and Condon give the Gators a considerable backbone in the frontcourt, allowing them to play big, skilled lineups. After drawing interest in the 2025 draft, both are better positioned for 2026.

“Haugh’s ability to play both forward spots as a plus passer and rebounder makes him an appealing long-term role player, though his advanced age (22) and average 3-point shooting (34% last season) could cap how teams view his upside. Still, he’s a quick processor who looks like a strong first-round bet.

“The hope is Condon will be able to make a more consistent offensive impact this season. NBA evaluators appreciate his playmaking feel, motor and mobility operating in the middle of the floor. Showcasing a more consistent 3-point shot would help his projection, but his defense gives him a solid base for a rotational center as he continues to polish his skills.

“Fland and Lee are smaller guards who will have to further prove themselves. Fland played just 21 games at Arkansas last season due to injuries, while Lee faces a big leap into the SEC after three seasons at Princeton. Fland’s playmaking and Lee’s 3-point shooting will be key to Florida’s offense, though, and big campaigns could improve their NBA hopes.”

The 10th-ranked Gators will be back in action on Tuesday night, hosting a Florida State team that’s undefeated through two games.

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