Gators National Champion Slated for Green Room Appearance in Round 2 of NBA Draft…read more…
In an unexpected yet deeply validating development for college basketball fans, Florida Gators forward and 2024 NCAA National Champion, Alex Condon, will be in the NBA Draft Green Room for Round 2 of the 2025 NBA Draft, a rare honor for a projected second-round pick. This unique invitation is a testament to Condon’s meteoric rise, undeniable talent, and the indelible mark he left on the college game—particularly during the Gators’ unforgettable championship run.
The Green Room—typically reserved for top-tier first-round prospects—serves as the draft’s most exclusive waiting area, hosting NBA hopefuls and their families as they await life-changing calls from league executives. For Condon, who entered college basketball with limited fanfare, the Green Room appearance reflects his emergence as one of the most compelling players in this year’s draft class.
From Australia to National Stardom
Hailing from Perth, Western Australia, Alex Condon joined the University of Florida as a relatively unknown international recruit. Initially considered a long-term development project by head coach Todd Golden and his staff, Condon quickly shattered expectations with his versatility, work ethic, and mental toughness.
Standing at 6’11” with a 7’2” wingspan, Condon was a defensive anchor and a high-IQ offensive contributor. He averaged 12.6 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game during his sophomore season, which culminated in Florida’s stunning NCAA championship victory over the Purdue Boilermakers.
Condon’s highlight-reel blocks, clutch post moves, and smooth passing drew national attention during March Madness. He was named to the All-Tournament Team and was widely viewed as Florida’s X-factor during their championship run.
NBA Scouts Take Notice
Despite being projected by most analysts as a late first- or early second-round pick, Condon’s Green Room invite suggests multiple teams are seriously considering taking him earlier than anticipated. According to ESPN’s Jonathan Givony, “Condon has been a fast riser in pre-draft evaluations. His interviews have been impressive, his scrimmage play was strong, and his analytics suggest he can thrive as a modern big man.”
Several NBA scouts have noted that Condon’s maturity, leadership, and willingness to embrace a role—all while making winning plays—make him an ideal fit for playoff-contending teams looking to bolster their frontcourt rotation. His floor-spacing potential, especially after shooting 38.2% from three-point range, only adds to his allure in a league that continues to prioritize bigs who can shoot and defend.
Florida’s Basketball Renaissance
Condon’s presence in the Green Room symbolizes more than personal success—it underscores a resurgence for the Florida Gators basketball program. After years of mediocrity following the back-to-back national titles under Billy Donovan in 2006 and 2007, the Gators have reclaimed national relevance under Todd Golden’s energetic leadership.
Golden, now entering his fourth season at the helm, has rebuilt the program around defensive tenacity, player development, and international scouting. “Alex is a special player, but he’s also a product of what we’re building here,” said Golden. “He represents everything we want this program to be—selfless, tough, and committed to winning.”
Florida’s title run and Condon’s draft buzz are already paying dividends on the recruiting trail. The Gators have landed two five-star recruits and a top-10 recruiting class for 2025, and returning stars like Riley Kugel and Sam Walters are expected to keep the team competitive next season.
A Rare Round 2 Green Room Invite
NBA insiders say that Condon’s Green Room presence in the second round is not just ceremonial—it’s tactical. “There’s real belief that he won’t slip past pick 35,” said NBA reporter Shams Charania. “Multiple teams in that early second-round range are enamored with his game and character. He could even sneak into the late first round.”
Historically, the NBA extends Green Room invitations based on both projected draft position and marketability. Condon, who has a growing fan base in both the U.S. and Australia, offers international appeal that many teams are looking to leverage in a globalizing NBA market.
Some scouts have even compared him to a hybrid of Mason Plumlee and Jonas Valančiūnas, with a touch of Franz Wagner’s passing ability. While he may lack elite vertical athleticism, Condon’s instincts, footwork, and basketball IQ make him an ideal rotational player with starter upside.
The Moment Ahead
As the NBA Draft approaches, Condon remains composed and focused. In a pre-draft interview with ESPN, he said, “Being in the Green Room is a blessing. I’m here because of the incredible people around me—my coaches, my teammates, my family. No matter where I get picked, I’m ready to work.”
He’ll be joined in the Green Room by his parents, who flew in from Australia, and Coach Golden, who received special permission from Florida’s athletic department to attend.
As for which team will call his name, several franchises—including the Toronto Raptors, Portland Trail Blazers, and San Antonio Spurs—have reportedly expressed strong interest. All three teams are undergoing rebuilds or youth-focused transitions and could benefit from Condon’s two-way skill set.
Legacy Beyond Gainesville
Regardless of where he lands, Condon’s story is already one of the most inspiring of the 2025 Draft class. From his roots in Australia’s semi-professional leagues to leading Florida back to championship glory, he’s proven that resilience, preparation, and humility can still shine in a landscape often dominated by hype and flash.
He’s also become a symbol of Florida’s broader athletic dominance this year—joining fellow Gators athletes in raising the school’s profile across multiple sports, including football, softball, and swimming.
Condon leaves Florida as a national champion, a fan favorite, and now, a Green Room invitee—a title only a select few in basketball history can claim.
Stay tuned to Round 2 of the NBA Draft this Friday night to witness the next chapter in Alex Condon’s inspiring journey.
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