Florida Gators basketball just got a major boost for the 2026-27 season. Star power forward Alex Condon is returning to Gainesville for his senior year, a source confirmed, choosing to run it back with the Gators rather than remain in the NBA Draft pool.

Condon, a 6-foot-11 force from Australia, initially declared for the draft following Florida's 2025 national title run. However, after feedback suggested he might land in the 20-to-35 pick range, he has decided to withdraw and return to school. His goal is twofold: to avenge the Gators' heartbreaking second-round NCAA Tournament exit and to solidify his draft stock for 2027.

This is huge news for head coach Todd Golden as he assembles next season's roster. Condon was a preseason AP All-American and a second-team All-SEC selection, finishing the year averaging 15.1 points and 7.5 rebounds while leading the team with 48 blocks. He was at his best during the season's final stretch, dropping 21 points in the season-ending loss to Iowa—his sixth 20-point performance in the last ten games.

While his three-point shooting dipped this past season, Condon remains a central offensive hub for the Gators. His decision to return provides veteran leadership and a proven interior presence for a team with championship aspirations.

The roster news doesn't stop with Condon. Guard Denzel Aberdeen has also announced a surprising return to Florida after a season at Kentucky. The former Dr. Philips standout is seeking an NCAA waiver for a fifth season and could add depth to a backcourt featuring talents like Boogie Fland and Isaiah Brown.

All eyes in Gainesville now turn to forwards Rueben Chinyelu and Thomas Haugh. Will they follow Condon's lead and return to bolster the frontcourt? Their decisions could be the final pieces in determining if the Gators have the lineup to make another deep March run.