Towering Talent Takes a Leap: 6’10”, 260-Pound Florida Star Rueben Chinyelu Declares for NBA Draft — Keeps Option to Return!
Gainesville, FL — Gators fans were met with both excitement and apprehension this week as Rueben Chinyelu, Florida’s imposing 6’10”, 260-pound center, officially declared for the 2025 NBA Draft. The move, while anticipated by many, still sent shockwaves through Gator Nation. But there’s a catch — Chinyelu is keeping his college eligibility intact, leaving the door open for a possible return to Gainesville.
Chinyelu, who quickly became a household name during the 2024-25 college basketball season, has captured the attention of NBA scouts with his bruising physicality, explosive rebounding, and growing offensive arsenal. Averaging 13.4 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game, the Nigerian-born big man was a cornerstone of Florida’s March Madness run and a matchup nightmare for SEC opponents.
“This is a huge moment for me and my family,” Chinyelu said in a statement released via social media. “I’m declaring for the NBA Draft to pursue a lifelong dream, but I’m also keeping my options open. I love Florida, I love my teammates, and I’m grateful for all the support.”
That support has come pouring in. Gators head coach Todd Golden publicly backed his star, saying, “Rueben has earned the right to explore this opportunity. He’s an incredible talent and an even better young man. Whether he returns or takes the leap, we’re behind him 100%.”
Fans, too, have responded with a mix of pride and nervous anticipation. Social media has lit up with messages like “Wishing Rueben the best,” and “Don’t forget Gainesville, big fella!” echoing across platforms. Despite the uncertainty, many see his declaration as a sign of how far the Gators’ program has come — producing NBA-level talent capable of competing on the world’s biggest stage.
Chinyelu will now enter the NBA Draft evaluation process, participating in combines, team workouts, and interviews. How he performs over the next few weeks could determine whether he hears his name called on draft night or returns to dominate the SEC for another season. With the NCAA allowing players to “test the waters” while maintaining eligibility, Chinyelu has until late May to make his final decision.
Analysts project him as a late first-round or early second-round pick, with some believing a strong pre-draft showing could propel him even higher. His rare combination of size, athleticism, and raw power — coupled with a growing mid-range shot — makes him an enticing prospect in a league increasingly valuing versatile big men.
For now, the suspense continues. Gainesville will be watching closely, hoping their towering talent makes the leap — but perhaps not just yet. One thing is certain: whether in orange and blue or NBA threads, Rueben Chinyelu’s future is towering indeed.
