Florida Gators fans will have multiple players to monitor ahead of next summer’s 2026 NBA Draft.

Last week, ESPN released its 2026 NBA Draft Big Board: Top 100 Prospects, ranking the best players in college basketball and beyond.

Among Florida’s draft‑eligible players, one name stands out. Junior forward Thomas Haugh has had a breakout season for the Gators, showing off scoring ability, defensive energy and versatility. His performance has not gone unnoticed by NBA evaluators and he is climbing draft boards nationally.

Here is what ESPN says about 6-foot-9 Haugh, who is ranked No. 13 on its big board. He previously checked in at No. 14.

“Haugh has validated his offseason buzz, stepping up as Florida’s best player and frequently carrying the Gators,” said ESPN’s Jeremy Woo. “He doesn’t waste dribbles and does most of his damage in the flow of the game. Couple his offensive growth with steady defense and high energy, and he’s the type of connective, versatile player who should give an NBA rotation an immediate boost.

“The fact Haugh will be 23 on draft night hurts his perceived upside but should make him appealing to teams looking to compete in the short term. The added value in finding plug‑and‑play players on rookie deals in the second‑apron era should ultimately bolster his case.”

Thomas Haugh’s placement at No. 13 on ESPN’s list puts him among the elite prospects in the 2026 draft class. This reflects both his production for the Gators and potential at the next level. His 2025–26 stats show him averaging 18.6 points, 7.0 rebounds and 2.4 assists per game.

Florida also has another player on ESPN’s top 100 list, as center Alex Condon is ranked at No. 40. That gives the Gators multiple names to watch in the lead up to the 2026 draft.

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