As the clock ticks closer to May 28, the pivotal date for NBA Draft declarations, speculation around Alex Condon's future intensifies. Standing tall at 6-foot-11 and weighing 230 pounds, Condon has captured the attention of scouts and fans alike with his remarkable athleticism and strategic playmaking abilities. His journey from Perth, Australia, to the heart of collegiate basketball showcases not only his talent but also his relentless determination to succeed.
In recent years, several Florida Gators have successfully navigated the pre-draft process, using it as a stepping stone for their professional careers. Walter Clayton Jr. and Will Richard exemplified this approach last year, opting to return to UF after gaining invaluable insights into areas needing improvement. Their decision paid off spectacularly, culminating in UF's triumphant march to its third national championship. Clayton Jr., in particular, emerged as a key figure, earning Final Four Most Outstanding Player honors and securing a projected first-round selection in the 2025 NBA Draft by Yahoo.com.
This precedent sets a promising stage for Condon, who could similarly benefit from participating in predraft camps and team workouts. By leveraging these experiences, he can refine his craft and elevate his draft stock while maintaining eligibility to return should he choose to do so.
Condon’s contributions during the 2024-25 season were nothing short of commendable. Earning second-team All-SEC honors, he averaged 10.6 points and 7.5 rebounds per game, further cementing his status as a formidable presence on the court. Despite a setback due to a sprained ankle during the Sweet 16 match against Maryland, Condon rebounded admirably in the national championship game against Houston. His final tally of 12 points and 7 rebounds underscored his resilience and adaptability under pressure.
Predictive models such as On3.com’s mock draft project Condon as a late first-round pick, slated to join the Boston Celtics. Such projections highlight the immense potential that scouts see in him, reinforcing the notion that Condon is ready to take the next significant step in his career.
Should Condon decide to rejoin the Florida Gators for another season, the implications for the team’s lineup would be profound. Alongside fellow returnees Rueben Chinyelu, Micah Handlogten, and Thomas Haugh, Florida could boast one of the most formidable frontlines in college basketball. Each player brings unique strengths to the table, creating a versatile and dynamic unit capable of dominating opponents.
Thomas Haugh, particularly, offers intriguing possibilities with his ability to operate effectively both inside and outside the paint. Averaging 9.8 points per game and shooting 34% from beyond the arc, Haugh’s versatility extends to positional flexibility. Coach Todd Golden envisions utilizing Haugh more extensively on the wing next season, capitalizing on his passing, handling, and shooting prowess. This strategic deployment underscores the depth and adaptability of Florida’s frontline, making them a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming season.