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WATCH: Former Gator Walter Clayton Jr. shines against San Antonio

79417-removebg-preview (1)by: Corey Bender10/11/25Corey_Bender
Walter Clayton
© Scott Wachter-Imagn Images

Former Florida Gators star Walter Clayton Jr. continues to impress early in his NBA career. The Utah Jazz guard scored 20 points off the bench in Friday’s preseason overtime loss to the San Antonio Spurs, 134-130, showing the same scoring touch that helped Florida win the national championship last season.

Clayton, who transferred to Florida from Iona and became a key piece of the Gators’ title run, didn’t let a slow shooting night from deep keep him from making an impact. He finished a perfect 6-for-6 from the free throw line, added five rebounds, five assists and a block while turning the ball over just twice.

The Spurs led by as many as 17 points before Utah fought back to force overtime. While San Antonio eventually pulled out the win, the result mattered far less than the continued development of young players in the preseason. Clayton’s performance stood out to head coach Will Hardy.

“I’ve watched some film with Walt where he’s trying to make every play a little bit too technically perfect. He’s almost trying to be the good guy,” Hardy told reporters after the game. “And Walt’s not a selfish player, but one of his best skills at this point in time is his ability to shoot and score.

“So, I thought tonight, when he was open, he looked for his shot. It makes the defense react to him because they respect his shooting.”

Carrying his Gators mentality into the pros

Clayton’s confidence and all-around effort reflected the same traits that made him a fan favorite in Gainesville. Known for his poise and clutch shooting, he played a major role in helping Florida cut down the nets last spring. Now, he’s showing that same competitive edge during his first NBA season.

Even as his 3-point shot wasn’t falling, Clayton found ways to stay aggressive and help his team. He attacked the basket, got to the free throw line, and helped the Jazz offense flow.

The Jazz will now return home for two more preseason matchup. The first will be on Monday against the Dallas Mavericks and then against Portland on Thursday before the regular season starts later this month.

For Gator fans, it’s been an early glimpse of what’s next for one of Florida’s championship heroes.

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