Haugh Returns to Florida, Gators Top NBA Draft Prospect

0:00On April 21st, Thomas Howe, the number 13 prospect in ESPN's top 100 for the 2026 NBA draft, just announced he's coming. Back to Florida for the 2026-2027 season. This lottery picked talent passing on the pros is rare, marking the highest rated return since Miles Bridges did it back in 2017 at Michigan State. Bridges stuck around for one more year, got picked 12th overall in 2018 by the Hornets. Howe put up 17.1 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 2.1 assists last season as Florida's full-time starter, stepping up big. After key guys like Walter Clayton Jr. left town, fans and analysts are buzzing because Howe joined stars like Alex Condon, Ruben Chignellu, Boogie Fland, and Sharp Shooter Urban Clavesar all returning to Gainesville. Clavesar even snagged SEC 6-man of the year honors so the core stays locked in. The Gators added former Kentucky Guard Denzel Aberdeen through the transfer portal, filling

1:02a starter spot left by Xavier and Lee. Coming off back to back SEC titles and a 63 wins, 12 losses record over two years, despite that early tournament exit. Florida's already the early favorite to open as number 1 in the AP poll next season, stacking talent in this NIO world where staying put pays off.