National title contender that improved its chances the most Borzello: Florida. The Gators went from losing the entire perimeter rotation from their national championship roster to having a legitimate chance of going back-to-back. All it took was a hint of good fortune toward the end of the spring. Out the door went Walter Clayton Jr., Alijah Martin, Will Richard and Denzel Aberdeen. And although Florida beat out St. John's for Princeton transfer Xaivian Lee, a two-time All-Ivy selection, the Gators still needed more on the perimeter in a market that was quickly dying up. Enter Boogie Fland, who entered the transfer portal just ahead of the deadline, then ultimately withdrew from the NBA draft before committing to the Gators. Lee and Fland should form one of the country's most dynamic backcourts, which combined with a loaded returning frontcourt puts Florida back in the conversation for preseason No. 1.
I like Florida's chances too. I think this team will closer resemble the repeat teams based on roster composition. XL a facilitator like Taurean, Boogie more combo than a sharpshooter than Hump. Haugh is probably the closest to Corey Brewer or Casey Prather in terms of build and skill. I am not going to compare Al and Joakim to anyone other than the size and height
I think the guards behind Lee and Fland are really being overlooked. AJ is a good shooter and has had good performances against major teams. Urban obviously has played well in huge moments. Isaiah is not tested, but clearly a great athlete. And all indications are that Lloyd can fill it up and Ingram might not be a shooter, but does everything else at a high level. That is 5 guys I think can be expected to be at least “reliable.” If just two exceed expectations that roster is extremely high level at the 1 and 2.
