Rueben Chinyelu, the Florida Gators’ 6-foot-10 starting center, announced on June 18 that he has withdrawn from the 2026 NBA Draft. He will return to Florida for the 2026-27 college basketball season [1, 2].
Chinyelu averaged 10.9 points and 11.2 rebounds per game as a junior last season. He won the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year and SEC Defensive Player of the Year awards for his defensive impact [1, 2].
Before withdrawing, Chinyelu was projected to be selected from the late first round to the mid second round in the upcoming NBA Draft. He participated in the NBA scouting combine earlier in June, where he showed improved shooting and strong measurables, which bolstered his draft stock [2].
His return bolsters a Florida frontcourt that also includes key returning players Thomas Haugh and Alex Condon. Haugh averaged 17.1 points and 6.1 rebounds per game last season [1, 2].
Florida won the SEC regular season in 2026 and was a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament in March. Coach Todd Golden leads the team with a 103–41 overall record and a 30-6 SEC record over the last 36 league games. Golden has guided Florida to three straight NCAA Tournament appearances [1, 2].
Fox News described Chinyelu’s decision as a major boost, saying, "The return of Chinyelu all but cements Florida's status as the nation's preseason No. 1 team heading into next year" [2]. Florida is viewed as an early national preseason favorite for the upcoming season [1, 2].
Florida’s next season begins in November 2026, when Chinyelu and the Gators will aim to build on their strong recent success.
