The 2026 NBA Draft is officially over, and this year, not a single Florida Gator was selected. Of course, only one former member of the Orange and Blue was even available: Xaivian Lee, who was ultimately signed as an undrafted free agent on an Exhibit 10 deal.
However, next season appears to be a different story, with three prominent Gators starters whose collegiate eligibility will expire. Thomas Haugh, Reuben Chinyelu and Alex Condon have all delayed their entry into the NBA for one last run in Gainesville, and the trio will undoubtedly jump to the pros next summer in the 2027 NBA Draft.
While there is still a full year between then and now, CBS Sports writer Adam Finkelstein took an early stab at predicting the top 30 picks for next year’s draft. In it, he projects two of Florida’s rising seniors to be taken in the first round.
With the sixth selection, Finelstein expects the Memphis Grizzlies to take Haugh. “Jumbo wings are always in high demand in the NBA, and that’s what Haugh is gradually proving to be,” he explains. “He’ll be the focal point for the top team in the country to start the season.”
With the 21st pick, Finkelstein predicts that Chinyelu will be selected by the Phoenix Suns via the Cleveland Cavaliers. “Chinyelu has a chiseled frame, incredible length, and is a dominant defender,” he offers. “The offense has made gradual strides, but it’s the former, not the latter, that makes him a pro.”
While Condon did not earn a mention among the first 30 picks, unless something goes terribly wrong this season, he will undoubtedly hear his name called during the second round. Alternatively, if things go extremely well, his stock could rise into the first round, giving the Gators three first-round selections for the first time since 2007, when Al Horford (No. 3), Corey Brewer (No. 7) and Joakim Noah (No. 9) were all lottery picks.
Follow us @GatorsWire on X, formerly known as Twitter, as well as Bluesky, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida Gators news, notes and opinions.
This article originally appeared on Gators Wire: Haugh, Chinyelu projected as first-round picks in 2027 NBA Draft
Discover more from NAIRAVOICE.COM.NG
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
