Rueben Chinyelu Declares for NBA Draft, Florida Gators Rebuild

0:00On April 20th, Florida star Junior Center Ruben Kenyelu just declared for the 2026 NBA draft, but he's smartly keeping his college, eligibility intact. Ranked at 37th overall prospect in 8th best center by CVS Sports, he dominated this past season with 11.2 rebounds per game, good for fourth in the nation. He snagged a Florida record, 19 double doubles, becoming the first gator in 50 years to average double figures on the boards. Chenyelu also posted a career high 10.9 points per game, one block, and ranked ninth nationally in offensive rebounds at 3.9. Per matchup. The 6-foot-10, 265-pound Nigerian transfer from Washington State before the 2024-25 season and helped. Florida to a national title run. He entered last year's draft, but returned for more growth, boosting his touch, balance, and free throws to hard work. Coach Todd Golden praised his coachability and development, calling him a prime example of

1:03putting in the time without ego. Now, Florida's reshaping the roster, with back court stars like rising Junior Boogie Fland and others recommitting. They lost senior guard Xavier and lead to eligibility, and saw Center Micahan Lachin and Olivier Ryu hit the transfer portal, but landed Kentucky. Transferred Denzel Aberdeen. As they await forward, Thomas Hall's draft call and welcome back Alex Condon, the gator's gear up strong for 2026-27.