Florida Basketball’s Denzel Aberdeen Enters Transfer Portal, Shifting Roster Dynamics

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Denzel Aberdeen, a key backup guard for the Florida Gators basketball team, has announced his decision to enter the NCAA transfer portal, marking another significant shift for the reigning national champions. The news was first reported by On3’s Joe Tipton on Friday, highlighting Aberdeen’s plans to find a new program as he approaches the final year of his eligibility.

Aberdeen, who concluded his most productive season with the Gators in 2024-25, averaged 7.7 points, 1.4 assists, and 1.7 rebounds per game. His performance included a memorable stretch where he recorded two consecutive 20-point games against No. 22 Mississippi State and South Carolina, culminating in a career-high of 22 points against the Gamecocks.

The 6-foot-5 guard made his first career start during a game against Vanderbilt, where he contributed 13 points in a game that marked his 65th appearance with the Gators. Only Chris Richard played more games before making his first start, achieving that milestone in his 112th game.

“Denzel is obviously playing at an insanely high level right now. His minutes are earned,” head coach Todd Golden said after Aberdeen’s impressive performances. “We have to remain unselfish. I think that’s going to be the biggest key to our success the rest of the way.”

Aberdeen’s decision follows the recent announcement from Sam Alexis, a rising senior forward who entered the transfer portal earlier on Friday. Their departures signify growing changes within the Gators program as it prepares for the 2025-2026 season.

Despite his contributions this past season, Aberdeen’s decision is reportedly influenced more by the evolving roster dynamics and potential name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities than by the arrival of Princeton transfer Urban Klavžar. The Gators are anticipating adding more players to build a competitive roster following the anticipated departures of senior guards Walter Clayton Jr. and Alijah Martin, as well as Will Richard.

In a heartfelt Instagram statement, Aberdeen shared gratitude for his experience at Florida, saying, “I want to thank God for blessing me with the opportunity to play at such an incredible university. These past three years have been nothing short of amazing. I’m truly grateful to have worn the Orange and Blue.”

Reflecting on his bond with teammates, he added, “We made history together, and those memories will stay with me forever.” His departure could leave a void as he was projected to step into a full-time starting role next season.

Similarly, Sam Alexis expressed appreciation in his announcement about entering the portal after a season marred by injury. The 6-foot-8 junior, who averaged 4.7 points and 3.5 rebounds per game, played a limited role this season but was pivotal during the Gators’ title run.

“My journey at Florida hasn’t been easy. I’ve faced a lot of adversity, but every challenge has helped me grow into a better player,” Alexis stated. “Winning a national championship here will always be one of the greatest moments of my life.”

If Aberdeen, Alexis, and sophomore guard Kajus Kublickas follow through with their decisions to transfer, they could potentially be the sixth, seventh, and eighth scholarship players to leave the team from last year’s roster. The Gators are also reportedly pursuing additional talent through the transfer portal.

Florida’s coaching staff is actively looking to reshape the roster as they navigate the off-season and respond to changes in their current lineup.