Staying Loyal: Gators Star Alex Condon Declares Return for 2025-26 Season

In a move that shocked fans and bolstered the hopes of the University of Florida Gators basketball program, star player Alex Condon announced he would return for the 2025-26 season. Condon, widely regarded as one of the brightest young stars in college basketball, made his decision public after months of speculation about his future. His return to the Gators represents not just a personal commitment but a statement of loyalty to the program and the university that has helped shape his career so far.

The 2025-26 season will mark a crucial chapter in Condon’s development as a player. As one of the top players in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), the Gators’ fans are elated to see him back for another year. Condon’s decision to stay instead of declaring for the NBA Draft adds a layer of excitement to a program that has been striving for national prominence in recent years.

A Standout Career

Alex Condon’s rise to prominence at the University of Florida has been meteoric. His journey began when he committed to the Gators in 2023, instantly making waves in the basketball community due to his exceptional skills. Standing at 6’9″, Condon is known for his versatility, a trait that allows him to excel both as a forward and center. His combination of size, athleticism, and basketball IQ quickly made him one of the most talked-about players in college basketball.

During his freshman season in 2023-24, Condon averaged 15.2 points per game, 8.4 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks, earning All-SEC honors. His impact was felt both on the offensive and defensive ends of the court. Whether he was crashing the boards, blocking shots, or hitting mid-range jumpers, Condon showed that he had the tools to be an elite player.

In his sophomore year, 2024-25, Condon elevated his game to new heights. He increased his scoring to 18.5 points per game, improved his rebounding to 9.2 per contest, and even showed flashes of playmaking ability, dishing out 3 assists per game. He became a centerpiece of the Gators’ offense, and his defensive presence was felt in nearly every game. The combination of his physical tools and his work ethic made him a potential lottery pick in the NBA Draft.

However, despite his outstanding individual success, the Gators were unable to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament, falling short in the Round of 32. For many players, that early exit would signal a moment of reflection about their future, and for Condon, the decision to either stay or go was a pressing one.

The Speculation

As the 2024-25 season wound down, speculation surrounding Condon’s future reached a fever pitch. NBA scouts had been closely monitoring his performance, and with his draft stock soaring, it was widely assumed that he would declare for the 2025 NBA Draft. Various mock drafts placed him anywhere from the top five to the lottery, further stoking the belief that he would take the next step in his career.

However, Condon remained quiet on the subject. Fans of the Gators were understandably nervous, knowing that losing their star player would be a significant blow to the team’s championship aspirations for the following year. Despite his incredible individual talent, Condon had never publicly hinted at his decision, leading many to wonder if his love for the Gators was enough to keep him in Gainesville for another season.

In interviews, Condon expressed gratitude for his time at Florida, emphasizing how much he had grown as both a player and a person during his tenure at the university. He also spoke about his deep connection with head coach Todd Golden, who had played an integral role in developing Condon’s game. “Coach Golden has been an incredible mentor to me,” Condon said in one interview. “He believes in me and has helped me become a better player every day. Florida has become home, and I’m not ready to leave just yet.”

Despite the growing speculation, Condon kept his cards close to his chest, even as media outlets and sports analysts attempted to predict his next move.

The Announcement

In an exclusive social media post in April 2025, Condon made his much-anticipated announcement: he would be returning to the University of Florida for the 2025-26 season. The post, accompanied by a picture of Condon in a Gators uniform with his arms raised in celebration, read:

“I’m excited to announce that I’ll be back for another year at the University of Florida! We’ve got unfinished business, and I can’t wait to be a part of something special here in Gainesville. Let’s make it count. #GoGators”

The announcement was met with an outpouring of excitement from Gators fans and the basketball community alike. Social media exploded with messages of support, as fans expressed their gratitude for his decision to stay. It was clear that Condon’s return not only boosted the morale of the fanbase but also raised the Gators’ chances of making a deep run in the 2026 NCAA Tournament.

What This Means for the Gators

Condon’s decision to stay is a monumental moment for the Gators basketball program. As a returning player, he will provide stability, leadership, and experience for a team that will be looking to bounce back from its disappointing early exit in the 2025 NCAA Tournament. Condon’s presence on the floor will undoubtedly elevate the Gators to new heights.

First and foremost, his return means that Florida will have a bona fide star leading the charge. Condon’s scoring ability, rebounding prowess, and defensive skills make him a matchup nightmare for opposing teams. His ability to stretch the floor, run the fast break, and play multiple positions on offense and defense will give coach Todd Golden numerous options when constructing the lineup.

Florida is also poised to build around Condon, bringing in key recruits and transfers to complement his skillset. In particular, Condon’s decision to stay might influence other potential recruits, who will see Florida as a place where they can develop and thrive under a coach like Golden. The Gators have always had a rich basketball tradition, and with Condon leading the charge, it’s likely that the program will be able to attract top-tier talent in the coming years.

Moreover, Condon’s leadership will play an essential role in the development of younger players. His experience and work ethic will undoubtedly rub off on his teammates, particularly the freshmen and sophomores, who will look to him for guidance. Florida’s basketball culture will benefit from his commitment to excellence, and his determination to lead by example.

Condon’s Personal Development

For Alex Condon, the decision to return for another year may seem surprising to some, but it’s a clear indication of his maturity as a player. Though the allure of the NBA is strong, Condon recognizes that another year in college will help him refine his game and prepare him for the next level.

At the core of Condon’s decision is his desire to improve his skills and continue growing as a player. While he has already shown an exceptional ability to score and defend, there are areas in which he can continue to develop. In particular, Condon’s shooting consistency from beyond the arc and his ability to create for others are two facets of his game that he will likely focus on in the offseason.

Furthermore, Condon understands that by staying another year, he will have the opportunity to lead his team to a championship. The Gators are in a prime position to contend for an SEC title and potentially make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. Condon’s leadership on the court and his ability to perform in high-pressure situations will be vital as Florida seeks to return to the national spotlight.

The NBA Draft Still Looms

Although Condon has committed to returning for the 2025-26 season, his eventual jump to the NBA is still inevitable. However, his decision to stay in college for another year will likely raise his stock even further. By playing another season under coach Todd Golden, he can fine-tune his game and increase his chances of being selected in the top five of the NBA Draft in 2026.

The NBA scouts will continue to monitor his progress, and if Condon can build upon his already impressive skillset, there is a strong likelihood that he will be one of the first players off the board come draft time. His combination of size, athleticism, and skill is rare, and by staying in school for another year, he may become an even more complete player.

Alex Condon’s decision to stay at the University of Florida for the 2025-26 season is a significant moment in both his career and in the trajectory of the Gators’ basketball program. His loyalty to the university, the fans, and his teammates is evident, and his return signals that the Gators are in for a bright future. As one of the most exciting players in college basketball, Condon’s impact will extend beyond the court, influencing the culture of Florida basketball for years to come.

With his return, the Gators now have a legitimate shot at competing for an SEC title and making a deep run in the 2026 NCAA Tournament. Alex Condon’s journey is far from over, and the best may yet be ahead for the Gators and their star player. Fans across the country will be watching closely as Condon continues his development, but for now, he’s all-in on the Gators. It’s clear: Florida’s future is bright with Condon leading the charge.