Gainesville, FL – April 13, 2025 – In a move that has left the Florida Gators fanbase reeling and Head Coach Billy Napier visibly surprised, star guard Walter Clayton Jr. has announced his decision to forgo his remaining college eligibility and declare for the 2025 NBA Draft. The announcement, made via a heartfelt post on his social media accounts earlier today, comes just days after the Gators’ triumphant run to the NCAA National Championship, where Clayton Jr. was a pivotal figure and earned Final Four Most Outstanding Player honors.
The timing of Clayton Jr.’s decision has caught many off guard. While his stellar performances throughout the NCAA Tournament, including multiple 30+ point games and a dominant showing in the championship game against Houston, had significantly elevated his draft stock, most analysts anticipated he would return to Gainesville for at least one more season to further develop his game and solidify his position as a potential lottery pick.
Head Coach Billy Napier, who was attending an alumni event when the news broke, was reportedly speechless upon hearing of Clayton Jr.’s announcement. Sources present at the event described a palpable sense of shock and disappointment among the coaching staff and boosters. Napier, who had consistently praised Clayton Jr.’s leadership and impact on the team, had undoubtedly envisioned building the Gators’ future around the talented guard.
Clayton Jr.’s statement on social media expressed his deep gratitude for his time at Florida and the unwavering support of the coaching staff, his teammates, and the Gator Nation. He acknowledged the pivotal role the program played in his development and the unforgettable experience of winning a national championship. However, he stated that after careful consideration and discussions with his family and advisors, he felt the time was right to pursue his lifelong dream of playing in the NBA.
“Gator Nation, what a ride it has been,” Clayton Jr.’s post read. “Winning a national championship with this incredible group of guys is something I will cherish forever. The Swamp became my home, and the support I received was unbelievable. Coach Napier and the entire staff believed in me, and my teammates pushed me every single day. After a lot of thought, I’ve decided to declare for the NBA Draft. This has always been my ultimate goal, and I feel ready to take this next step. Thank you for everything, Florida. I will always be a Gator.”
Clayton Jr.’s journey to this point has been remarkable. After transferring to Florida from Iona, he quickly established himself as the team’s leading scorer and a dynamic playmaker. His offensive versatility, scoring prowess, and improved defensive tenacity were instrumental in the Gators’ remarkable postseason run. His ability to take over games and deliver in crucial moments made him a fan favorite and a nightmare matchup for opponents.
The departure of Clayton Jr. leaves a significant void in the Gators’ roster. He was not only their leading scorer but also a key ball-handler and emotional leader. Napier and his coaching staff will now face the challenge of finding ways to replace his production and leadership as they look towards the 2025-2026 season. This unexpected development could potentially alter their recruiting strategies and roster management plans in the coming months.
While the news is undoubtedly a blow to the Florida program, it also underscores the success they achieved this past season and the individual talent they cultivated. Clayton Jr.’s decision to enter the NBA Draft speaks volumes about his growth and the platform that Florida provided him. He is projected to be a first-round pick in many mock drafts, further solidifying the Gators’ reputation for developing high-level talent.
The Gator Nation will undoubtedly miss Walter Clayton Jr.’s electrifying play and his impact on the team’s championship run. However, they will also eagerly follow his journey as he embarks on his NBA career, forever remembering him as a key player on a national championship-winning team who left it all on the court for the Orange and Blue. The era of Walter Clayton Jr. at Florida may be over, but his legacy will undoubtedl
y endure.
