Florida got some good news on Thursday evening as leading scorer Kenny Boynton announced via twitter that he would be foregoing the NBA Draft to return to school for his senior season.
“To confirm the questions being ask lately I have reached a decision and I am returning to Gainesville for my senior season #go gators,” Boynton tweeted.
This is big news for the Gators, as Boynton had his best season in Gainesville last year. Boynton entered Florida with the reputation of being a big-time scorer and shooter, but he struggled with his consistency throughout his career. As a junior, Boynton’s improved 3-point shooting and decision-making were a big reason the Gators were able to make it to their second straight Sweet 16.
Florida will also be getting Patric Young back next season. Young has been adamant about his return to school since the SEC tournament, and his presence in the paint would anchor the Florida front line once again. With Erik Murphy, Mike Rosario, Casey Prather and Will Yeguete also returning and being joined by a solid recruiting class headlined by point guard Braxton Ogbueze, Florida should once again finish near the top of the SEC.
The x-factor will be freshman Bradley Beal. Beal seems to be a lock for the top five of this year’s NBA Draft, but he has yet to make his intentions known. Last year, top five picks Harrison Barnes, Jared Sullinger and Perry Jones III all returned to school, and if Beal follows their lead, the Gators will be a top five team in the preseason. He is that good.
Rob Dauster is the editor of the college basketball website Ballin’ is a Habit. You can find him on twitter @robdauster.