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Florida coach Todd Golden is hopeful that junior Rueben Chinyelu will return to the program next season for his senior year after opting to test the 2026 NBA draft process.
Chinyelu announced on April 20 that he would be declaring for the draft while maintaining his remaining college eligibility. He said in his announcement that he would return to the Gators for the 2026-27 season if he eventually decides to withdraw from the draft.
The 6-foot-10 center emerged as one of the top performers in the draft combine, averaging 13.5 points and 10 rebounds in two scrimmages. He also registered the longest wingspan among all prospects (7 feet, 7 1/2 inches) and the fifth-highest standing reach (9 feet, 3 1/2 inches).
Prospects who declared as early entrants have until May 27 to withdraw from the draft and return to school. Golden, speaking with Jeff Goodman and Rob Dauster on "The Field of 68" podcast, believes there is a chance Chinyelu returns for next season.
Chinyelu was the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year, averaging 10.9 points, 11.2 rebounds and one block while shooting 58.4% from the field in 35 games last season. He led the country in total rebounds (393) and was 19th in defensive rating (93.6).
The Nigerian became the first Gators player since the 1975-76 season to average a double-double. He set single-season program records for double-doubles (19) and offensive rebounds (137), while his 393 total rebounds ranked third.
Chinyelu is currently projected to be a second-round pick this year, thanks to his defensive tenacity and ability to protect the rim. He also showcased his high motor and ability to run the floor during his two scrimmage appearances at the combine.
The 22-year-old said at the combine that team feedback and his draft range will ultimately play a large role in whether he stays in the draft or returns to Gainesville. In the meantime, Golden and the Gators will eagerly await his looming decision.
This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Rueben Chinyelu update: Todd Golden comments on draft decision
Continue reading...
Chinyelu announced on April 20 that he would be declaring for the draft while maintaining his remaining college eligibility. He said in his announcement that he would return to the Gators for the 2026-27 season if he eventually decides to withdraw from the draft.
The 6-foot-10 center emerged as one of the top performers in the draft combine, averaging 13.5 points and 10 rebounds in two scrimmages. He also registered the longest wingspan among all prospects (7 feet, 7 1/2 inches) and the fifth-highest standing reach (9 feet, 3 1/2 inches).
Prospects who declared as early entrants have until May 27 to withdraw from the draft and return to school. Golden, speaking with Jeff Goodman and Rob Dauster on "The Field of 68" podcast, believes there is a chance Chinyelu returns for next season.
Chinyelu was the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year, averaging 10.9 points, 11.2 rebounds and one block while shooting 58.4% from the field in 35 games last season. He led the country in total rebounds (393) and was 19th in defensive rating (93.6).
The Nigerian became the first Gators player since the 1975-76 season to average a double-double. He set single-season program records for double-doubles (19) and offensive rebounds (137), while his 393 total rebounds ranked third.
Chinyelu is currently projected to be a second-round pick this year, thanks to his defensive tenacity and ability to protect the rim. He also showcased his high motor and ability to run the floor during his two scrimmage appearances at the combine.
The 22-year-old said at the combine that team feedback and his draft range will ultimately play a large role in whether he stays in the draft or returns to Gainesville. In the meantime, Golden and the Gators will eagerly await his looming decision.
This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Rueben Chinyelu update: Todd Golden comments on draft decision
Continue reading...
