Former Florida Big Man Signs with Hometown NBA Team

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Hugh Green | Last updated Aug 22, 2025 8:17 PM ET

Colin Castleton became a beloved member of the Florida Gators during his time in Gainesville. The 6-foot-11, 250-pound center spent his final three collegiate seasons at Florida, where he shined on both sides of the floor.

Castleton, unfortunately, suffered a broken hand during his final year with the Gators, which ended his career at Florida. He was not selected in the 2023 NBA Draft but signed a two-way contract with the Los Angeles Lakers for his rookie season.

After bouncing around to three different teams last year, Castleton is coming back home, as he reached an agreement with the Orlando Magic on Friday, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.

Castleton's one-year deal with the Magic will be a non-guaranteed Exhibit 10 contract, per The Orlando Sentinel's Jason Beede. This means if he is waived before the 2025-26 season begins and spends at least 60 days with the NBA G League's Osceola Magic, he will be eligible for a bonus up to $85,300.

The Deland, Florida, native appeared in 26 games last season between the Memphis Grizzlies, Toronto Raptors and Philadelphia 76ers. In total, he averaged 4.7 points, 4.7 rebounds and just over one assist per contest.

Castleton was a star during his three years at Florida. He was named to an All-SEC team all three seasons and was awarded USA Today's Defensive Player of the Year in 2023. In his Gators' career, the big man scored 14.9 points, grabbed 7.8 rebounds and blocked an absurd 2.5 shots per game.

Now back in his home state of Florida, Castleton will try to be a piece of the Magic's puzzle this season.

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

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