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Florida Star Makes Major Career Announcement After NCAA Tournament Championship

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Joshua Rosenblum | Last updated Apr 17, 2025 1:18 PM ET

Fresh off the Florida Gators’ thrilling NCAA Tournament Championship victory, Rueben Chinyelu, the team’s standout center, has announced a pivotal step in his burgeoning basketball career.

Chinyelu took to X to share that he will be declaring for the 2025 NBA Draft while maintaining his college eligibility, a decision that marks a significant moment for the young star and Gators fans alike.

Chinyelu, a Nigerian-born talent who previously played for the Washington State Cougars before transferring to Florida, played a key role in the Gators’ championship run.

The team clinched the title on April 9, 2025, with a hard-fought 65-63 victory over the Houston Cougars, a game where Florida’s second-half defense proved decisive.

In his heartfelt announcement, Chinyelu expressed gratitude to God, the University of Florida, its fans, and the coaching staff led by Coach Todd Golden. He credited them for believing in him and helping him grow both as a player and a person.

The 21-year-old also thanked his teammates for their unwavering support, noting how their bond has shaped his journey.

By declaring for the NBA Draft while retaining his college eligibility, Chinyelu is taking a strategic approach to his future.

This move allows him to test the professional waters, gather feedback from NBA scouts, and decide whether to turn pro or return to Florida for another season.

As he prepares for the next chapter, Gators fans are rallying behind him, hoping to see him continue Florida’s legacy of producing NBA talent, a list that includes stars like Al Horford and Joakim Noah.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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