Princeton’s Xaivian Lee Joins Florida, Strengthening the Reigning Champs!

Princeton transfer Xaivian Lee, regarded as one of the best point guards in the transfer portal, has committed to Florida, filling the gap left by Walter Clayton Jr., the Gators’ standout All-American guard. Lee announced his decision on Wednesday after completing visits to St. John’s and Kansas.

Lee, a 6-foot-4 native of Canada, is a two-time first-team All-Ivy League selection. In the previous season, he put up impressive stats, averaging 16.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game. His shooting efficiency was also notable, with nearly 37% from beyond the arc. Lee made history at Princeton by becoming the first player in the program’s history to record a triple-double. He achieved the rare feat in a game against Saint Joseph’s in early December, posting 18 points, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists.

Lee’s arrival is expected to be a seamless fit into Florida’s system under coach Todd Golden. His playmaking and versatility should bolster the Gators’ offense, which will be looking to replace the production of Clayton, who played a pivotal role in their recent national championship victory.

Florida’s commitment to Lee signifies the final major piece of their roster puzzle. While the Gators will lose key contributors in Martin and Richard, Lee’s arrival allows them to maintain a strong backcourt presence. Reserve guard Denzel Aberdeen is likely to step into the starting lineup, adding depth to an already talented roster.

The Gators’ roster for next season will also see the return of center Rueben Chinyelu, along with backup frontcourt players Thomas Haugh and Micah Handlogten. However, the future of Alex Condon, a projected first-round NBA draft pick, remains uncertain. Condon announced he will enter the draft process but could potentially return to Gainesville if he chooses to forgo professional basketball for another year of college.

Florida is also keeping an eye on transfers, with interest in Ohio’s AJ Brown and Washington State’s Cedric Coward. With the addition of Lee, the Gators are poised for another strong season and look to defend their national title while continuing to build a competitive team.