Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Walter Clayton Jr.'s Final NBA Mock Draft Predictions

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Hugh Green | Last updated Jun 24, 2025 5:37 PM ET

It's been over two months since the Florida Gators stood atop the college basketball world. Since UF triumphed over Houston in the national championship, all eyes have been on where Florida's trio of senior guards would end up in the 2025 NBA Draft,

With two days until the draft, experts believe Walter Clayton Jr. may be staying in his home state. In ESPN draft analysts Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo's latest mock draft, the Lake Wales, Florida native is predicted to be selected No. 20 overall by the Miami Heat.

Sam Vecenie of The Athletic also has Clayton going in-state, but a few picks later to the Orlando Magic with the No. 25 overall selection.

"Walter is not only the most talented shotmaker and creator I've been around, he also is simply a winner," Florida head coach Todd Golden said. "Great teammate, well-conditioned athlete, unwavering confidence. He's everything you would want in a leader and a modern NBA scoring point guard."

The 6-foot-2 guard led the Gators in scoring both years he played in Gainesville after transferring from Rick Pitino's Iona Gaels before his junior season.

Clayton averaged 18.3 points, 4.2 assists and over one steal per game in his final year at UF, leading to a first-team All-American selection, per The Associated Press. He became the first player in program history to earn the honor.

Whether or not Clayton ends up lacing up for a team in the Sunshine State is yet to be decided. However, no matter where the explosive sharp-shooter ends up, he will bring a wealth of talent and a championship pedigree.

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

More must-reads: