The Florida Gators are entering the 2024-25 season with a wealth of experience, especially in their backcourt. Veteran players are crucial in sports for providing stability, guiding younger teammates, and overcoming challenges, and the Gators have a roster rich in such experience.
Leading the team’s lineup are guards Walter Clayton Jr., Will Richard, and Alijah Martin, who all bring significant college basketball experience. Clayton, a high-scoring guard and Preseason First Team All-SEC selection, is expected to be a key offensive weapon. His teammate Martin, a graduate transfer, adds toughness and defensive skills honed during his four seasons with Florida Atlantic University (FAU), where he helped lead the team to a Final Four appearance in 2023. Meanwhile, Richard, a consistent presence for the Gators, has shown himself to be a reliable shooter, making him a valuable contributor in his third season with Florida.
The Gators’ depth extends beyond the starters. Junior Denzel Aberdeen, a strong finisher from last season, will likely lead the bench unit, adding scoring power and versatility. Additional support comes from guards Isaiah Brown, Kajus Kublickas, and Urban Klavzar, who, while new to collegiate play, bring international experience. Kublickas and Klavzar have competed in European leagues and national teams, adding to the team’s depth and versatility.
With this experienced and well-rounded roster, head coach Todd Golden believes the Gators are set for a successful season, relying on their veteran leadership and bench depth to navigate challenges and compete strongly in the SEC.
