Walter Clayton Jr. Drafted 18th by Utah Jazz

Walter Clayton Jr., who led the Florida Gators to their third men's basketball national championship and earned consensus First-Team All-American honors, was selected 18th overall by the Utah Jazz in the 2025 NBA Draft after a trade with the Washington Wizards. Clayton, who began his college career at Iona under Rick Pitino before transferring to Florida, averaged 18.3 points, 4.2 assists, and 3.7 rebounds per game in his senior season. His clutch performances in the NCAA Tournament elevated his draft stock, drawing comparisons to Stephen Curry for his shooting and tournament heroics, while also being recognized for his physicality. The Jazz moved up in the draft by trading the No. 21 pick and multiple second-rounders to acquire Clayton, who joins fellow first-rounder Ace Bailey on the team. Clayton is the 38th Florida player and 13th first-rounder in program history. His journey from Lake Wales, Florida, to the NBA highlights his perseverance and significant impact during his short collegiate career.