If you’re wondering whether Florida basketball can run it back in 2025-26, ESPN just gave Gator Nation its answer: absolutely.
According to ESPN’s Jeff Borzello, the Gators have the pieces to become the program’s first back-to-back champions since Billy Donovan’s 2006-07 squads.
Florida head coach Todd Golden received praise for his offseason roster moves, especially the return of Alex Condon, who withdrew from the NBA draft, and the additions of Boogie Fland and Xaivian Lee via the transfer portal.
Golden, fresh off Florida’s first national title in nearly two decades, now has a team that is capable of sustaining the success they garnered a season ago.
The Gators’ strength lies in how the puzzle fits. Condon and Thomas Haugh bring frontcourt versatility. Reuben Chinyelu defends the rim. Fland and Lee provide a dynamic, athletic backcourt with shot creation and tempo control.
Add in Golden’s offensive schemes and returning championship DNA, and it’s no surprise ESPN slotted the Gators as a team that can make another run for the title.
Here is everything Borzello wrote about the Gators and why they have the talent to make another championship run.
What ESPN said about Florida basketball
“Florida has the talent to make another title run. Before UConn won the national championships in 2023 and 2024, men’s college basketball hadn’t seen a repeat title winner since Florida in 2006 and 2007 — but Todd Golden’s Gators have the players to make it a trend. Alex Condon withdrew from the NBA draft to return to Florida; Rueben Chinyelu and Thomas Haugh are also back; and top transfers Boogie Fland and Xaivian Lee were added in the portal.”
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