In a state that is loaded with talent in the next two seasons, Billy Donovan picked up his first commitment for 2016 Saturday when power forward John Mooney (6-8, 220, Altamonte Springs, FL Lake Brantley) made his pledge to the Florida Gators after an unofficial visit. Mooney played varsity basketball as a freshman last year at Lake Brantley, averaging 12 points and 10 rebounds per game.
Considered a prospect with a huge upside, Mooney was seen by a number of schools including Florida last week during an evaluation period at Lake Brantley. He was being recruited to Florida by assistant coach Matt McCall but made the commitment to Donovan after making the trip to Gainesville.
Mooney has grown two full inches and put on an additional 20 pounds since his freshman season. He is expected to grown another 1-2 inches.
The Gators won’t have to do much recruiting outside the state in 2016. In addition to Mooney, who is an Erik Murphy-type who can step outside and shoot as well as play inside, the Gators are actively recruiting Juwan Durham (6-9, 190, Tampa, FL Tampa Prep); Dewan Huell (6-9, 205, Miami, FL Norland); Troy Baxter (6-7 190, Tallahassee, FL Leon); Andrew Wilbekin (5-11, 160, Gainesville, FL The Rock School); and Jean-Michael Tine (6-8, 220, Sarasota, FL Impact Basketball Academy).
Gator Country will have more on the commitment later today.