ChompTalk.com

Florida center Rueben Chinyelu announced Thursday he will declare for the 2025 NBA Draft. He will maintain his eligibility to return to Florida.

Chinyelu has opted not to hire an agent so that he can return to Florida after being evaluated by NBA executives.

“After careful consideration and discussion with my family, I am excited to announce that I will be declaring for the 2025 NBA Draft while maintaining my college eligibility to return to the University of Florida.” Chinyelu stated in a message posted to his X account.

The 6’11, 240 lb Nigeria native averaged 6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and nearly a block per game with the Gators. In a February contest at LSU, Chinyelu recorded a season high 19 points while adding 13 rebounds. In a January win over No. 1 Tennessee, he grabbed a season-high 15 boards. In total, he finished with four double-doubles

The former Washington State big man is the second member of the national champion team to declare early, joining sophomore forward Alex Condon.

The Gators are also losing their backcourt trio of Walter Clayton, Jr, Alijah Martin, and Will Richard, who have all exhausted their eligibility.

Chinyelu will have to withdraw from draft consideration by June 15 to return to Gainesville for his junior campaign. The 2025 NBA Draft will be held June 25.