Alex Condon Withdraws From NBA Draft and Returns to Florida Gators, Sparking Hopes for a Dominant 2025-26 Season

Alex Condon has made his decision, and it’s one that Florida Gators fans have been hoping for: the versatile forward is withdrawing from the 2025 NBA Draft and returning to Gainesville for his sophomore season. Condon’s announcement reverberated throughout the college basketball world, especially in the Southeastern Conference, where his presence immediately elevates Florida into the conversation as one of the league’s potential breakout teams. His return is a major win for head coach Todd Golden, who continues to build a program with national relevance and a roster capable of making deep postseason noise.

Condon, a 6-foot-11 Australian native, was one of the most intriguing freshmen in the country last season, showcasing a rare blend of size, agility, and basketball IQ that made NBA scouts take notice. While he wasn’t projected as a first-round lock, Condon had risen steadily on draft boards thanks to strong performances during the latter part of the season and solid workouts during the pre-draft process. Ultimately, though, the pull to develop further at the college level—and the opportunity to return to a familiar system under Golden—proved stronger than the allure of the NBA.

In a brief statement released through the program’s social media channels, Condon expressed gratitude for the feedback he received during the draft evaluation process and said he’s “excited to be back in orange and blue, ready to finish what we started.” He also thanked the Florida staff, teammates, and fans for their support throughout the journey. It’s a return that speaks volumes about the culture Florida is building and Condon’s long-term mindset when it comes to development and success.

Condon’s decision not only impacts the Gators but also reshapes expectations for the SEC in 2025-26. With powerhouse programs like Kentucky and Alabama undergoing significant roster overhauls and other contenders losing star players to the draft, Florida’s continuity and returning talent give them an edge. Condon is the centerpiece of that equation. His ability to stretch the floor, protect the rim, and facilitate from the high post makes him a matchup nightmare. Last season, he averaged 10.4 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.2 blocks per game while shooting 36% from three-point range—impressive numbers that should only improve in his second collegiate campaign.

Perhaps more importantly, Condon’s return provides a foundational presence that allows Golden and his staff to implement more complex schemes on both ends of the floor. With Condon operating as a high-IQ big man who can initiate offense or anchor a defensive set, Florida’s spacing, tempo, and transition game all benefit. That flexibility was often what separated the Gators from the pack during stretches of strong play last season, and with Condon back in the fold, the Gators are poised to build upon those flashes of brilliance.

His chemistry with returning guards and wings will also be vital. Florida has a backcourt that blends scoring and distribution, and Condon’s ability to play inside-out only enhances that dynamic. Pick-and-roll actions, pick-and-pop shooting, and drive-and-kick spacing all become more dangerous with a big like Condon who can hit the open shot or make the right read under pressure. On defense, his timing and positioning allow Florida to switch more fluidly or drop into different looks depending on the matchup. There are few players in the SEC who combine his length, mobility, and court awareness, and even fewer who do it with the same composure.

From a leadership standpoint, Condon’s return signals a shift in his role within the program. As a freshman, he was learning and absorbing—now he becomes a tone-setter, both vocally and by example. Golden has often emphasized the importance of internal leadership, and Condon fits the mold of a player who can carry that mantle. His work ethic, attitude, and attention to detail already resonated with teammates last year. Now, those attributes will be even more critical as Florida chases its goals.

Beyond the tactical and locker-room implications, Condon’s decision also reflects a broader shift in how college stars view their options. The combination of NIL opportunities, personal development, and meaningful team roles makes staying in school an attractive path for many prospects who might have once jumped at a second-round grade. For Condon, returning to Florida isn’t just about basketball—it’s about building a legacy, competing at the highest collegiate level, and refining his game in a competitive, structured environment.

Golden and his staff deserve credit as well. Keeping a player like Condon from turning pro is no small feat, and it speaks to the level of trust and connection within the program. Florida has become a place where talent doesn’t just come to play but stays to grow. In an era where the transfer portal and early exits dominate headlines, continuity is a rare and valuable asset. The Gators now possess that with Condon, and the foundation is set for something special.

Nationally, Condon’s return will draw plenty of attention when preseason polls and All-America lists begin to form. He’s already a likely candidate for First Team All-SEC honors and will be viewed as a possible Naismith Award watchlist addition. His combination of statistical production and intangible value makes him a player who impacts winning in every sense. For NBA teams, a second year at Florida offers a chance to evaluate him in an even more prominent role, and if his trajectory continues upward, he could be a first-round lock by this time next year.

Condon’s return also creates a domino effect that could influence recruiting and transfer decisions around the country. Top recruits want to play with and learn from experienced, high-level teammates. Transfers want to join programs with a shot at March success. With Condon as the headliner, Florida becomes a destination rather than just a stepping stone. His decision sends a message that Gainesville is a place where serious basketball is played, and where winning matters.

There’s also the emotional lift that comes with a star player’s homecoming. For fans, alumni, and students, Condon represents hope and ambition—a reminder that the Gators are no longer just rebuilding but ready to contend. The O’Connell Center will be rocking every time he steps on the floor. In a state where football often dominates the sports conversation, basketball is carving out its place again in the Florida spotlight. And Condon’s presence will be at the center of that resurgence.

Looking ahead, the possibilities for Florida are exciting. With Condon anchoring the frontcourt, a balanced backcourt, and a coach who has proven his ability to get the most out of his roster, the Gators are in position to challenge for the SEC title and make a real run in the NCAA Tournament. It won’t be easy—nothing is in college basketball—but the hardest part might be over. Their best player is back, their identity is intact, and the belief in what’s possible has never been stronger.

For Alex Condon, the road to the NBA hasn’t ended—it’s simply been postponed. In the meantime, he has a golden opportunity to lead, to dominate, and to put Florida basketball firmly back on the national map. His return is more than just a roster update. It’s a statement. The Gators are ready, and they’re not just hoping for success—they’re planning on it.