Florida basketball news: Standout guard on track to Gators return after 5th year ruling

Florida basketball news announces that standout guard Denzel Aberdeen is on track to return to the Gators after being granted a fifth year of eligibility by a court ruling. Aberdeen, who began his college career at Florida, played his first three seasons with the team before transferring to Kentucky for his fourth year. The NCAA had denied his initial request for a fifth year of eligibility, but a Florida judge issued a temporary ruling against the organization, allowing Aberdeen to return to his alma mater.

Aberdeen had a standout season with the Gators in 2024-25, coming off the bench and averaging 7.7 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game while shooting 41.8 percent from the field and 35 percent from three-point range. His performance last season was even more impressive, as he became a starter and averaged career-best statistics of 13.5 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game, along with strong shooting percentages.

The Gators have made it to the NCAA Tournament in three of Aberdeen's first four seasons, including a round of 32 appearance last year. Head coach Todd Golden will now have the opportunity to lead the team into its fifth NCAA Tournament appearance under his tenure, following three appearances in Aberdeen's first four seasons.