The Florida Gators have completed a successful season under the leadership of second-year head coach Todd Golden, achieving 24 wins and 12 losses, representing a marked improvement from the previous year. Nevertheless, as is customary in the realm of college basketball, player turnover is an inevitable occurrence. In this regard, it is pertinent to examine the current trajectory of the Gators as they prepare for the forthcoming season.
Notably, several prominent players have departed the team as a result of graduation or their entry into the transfer portal. These departures include starting point guard Zyon Pullin, starting forward/center Tyrese Samuel, and sophomore Riley Kugel. Furthermore, player Alex Szymczyk expressed his intention to transfer, albeit he was sidelined throughout the preceding season due to injury. The definitive return of Walter Clayton Jr. and Will Richard, both of whom are testing the NBA waters, remains uncertain at this juncture.
Conversely, the transfer portal has facilitated the arrival of new talent to the Gators roster. Of particular significance are guard Alijah Martin from FAU, big man Rueben Chinyelu from Washington State, and forward Sam Alexis from Chattanooga. These acquisitions augment the team with their experience, athleticism, and positive defensive contributions. Moreover, the addition of freshmen Isaiah Brown and Olivier Rioux further bolsters the roster.
Armed with these new acquisitions and the potential return of key players, the Gators are poised for what promises to be an enthralling and eagerly anticipated 2024/25 season of college basketball.