Thomas Haugh Makes Appearance On SVP, Cementing Florida Basketball’s Growing Brand

It truly is great to be a Florida Gator. 

Thomas Haugh announced his return to Florida basketball for his senior season on Tuesday, reigniting Gators fans’ hope for the future of their program. But many were surprised to see Haugh’s return, as he was projected to be a top-20 prospect in the upcoming NBA draft. 

So why exactly did he return to Florida? Maybe the PR tour has some hints.

In an interview on ESPN’s Sportscenter With Scott Van Pelt on Tuesday night, Haugh said he didn’t come back for the money. “I love wearing the orange and blue,” Haugh explained. “I want to represent my school and wanna go back out there and get another championship.”

Haugh’s return is a major win for the Gators, as he led Florida in scoring with 17.1 points per game last year. Along with other notable returners like Alex Condon and Boogie Fland and the potential return of Denzel Aberdeen, Florida is shaping up for another deep run next season.

After a devastating loss to No. 9 seed Iowa in the Round of 32, many Gator fans were unsure what next seasons’ team would look like. Haugh experienced similar feelings.

“I [didn’t] want my last memory of Florida basketball to be that,” Haugh said. “I think [the loss] lit a fire underneath me.” 

Despite the loss and the potential to be a first-round pick, Haugh decided to stay “home.” 

But why? 

In a recent interview, Haugh explained how returning will provide him with a life value that’s hard to quantify.  “It’s a chance to play with my boys. To play for Coach Golden. To go to the school I love to play for,” he said. Clearly coach Todd Golden, as well as the rest of the coaching staff, have created an environment where players want to return. One that players want to stay for. Though the NBA may provide better pay and career opportunities, the players, coaches and fans at Florida keep star players like Haugh wanting to come back. 

During the Gators’ national championship season a year ago, Haugh only started a handful of games. However, this season, he featured in the Gators’ primary lineup in all but one game this season. That progression just goes to show how Golden helps to develop his players, which is a strong selling point for someone looking to improve their draft stock. 

Although next season is still a distance away, many Florida fans are happy to properly send off a Gator great, including with a true senior night (one haugh wouldn’t have been able to experience if he entered the draft). 

“I think the University of Florida men’s basketball program has become a destination program,” Golden explained. “A place guys understand they’re going to get better and not be in any rush to get out of here.”

The Florida basketball program re-established by Golden is one that has respect for both the players and the coaches. A program that has earned the country’s respect on multiple occasions. That’s why great players like Haugh want to return. The chance to play one last season in the O’Dome and wearing the Gators’ jersey is one that players dream of. 

Thus, No. 10 is here to stay. 

Category: Basketball, Gators Men's Basketball