“He’s just a winner.” That’s how a Boston Celtics veteran described Walter Clayton Jr. after the Florida Gators pulled off a thrilling 65-63 win over Houston to claim the 2025 NCAA Men’s Basketball National Championship. And this wasn’t just a casual compliment—it came from someone who fully expects to see Clayton in the NBA soon.
Al Horford, a respected Celtics leader and Florida Gators alum, praised the 22-year-old guard following the Gators’ third national title. “I know that I’m going to be playing against him next year in the pros… maybe he’ll be with us,” Horford said, half-joking but clearly impressed. “But I’m sure he’ll be playing in the NBA.”
And after the championship performance Clayton delivered on April 7 at the Alamodome, it’s tough to disagree.
During a conversation with @John_Fanta about the Gators, Al Horford implied that his NBA career will continue even after this season ends:
“I know that I’m gonna be playing against [Walter Clayton Jr.] next season in the pros. Maybe he’ll be with us.”
pic.twitter.com/eVunzZOjQF— Daniel Donabedian (@danield1214) April 8, 2025
At halftime, the numbers looked rough—Clayton had zero points, missed all six of his shots, and turned the ball over three times. Not exactly the start you’d expect from a Most Outstanding Player candidate.
But the second half was a different story.
Clayton exploded in the final stretch, scoring all 11 of his points late in the game, while adding 7 assists and 5 rebounds. His biggest moment came with seconds remaining: With Florida clinging to a 65-63 lead, Clayton applied full-court pressure and forced Houston’s Emanuel Sharp into a critical turnover, effectively sealing the game. Horford applauded his court awareness and unselfish play. “He understood they were going to double him,” Horford said. “He needed to get his guys involved… he’s just a smart player. A team player.”
Clayton’s full tournament stats reflect his consistency and leadership. He averaged 22.3 points, 3.3 assists, and 3.3 rebounds per game, highlighted by a 34-point performance against Auburn in the Final Four. With a resume like that, it’s unlikely he’ll remain at the college level much longer.
This Florida squad didn’t just win—they overcame adversity. Their championship run included three consecutive comeback victories, with key contributions from players like Alijah Martin, who sank crucial free throws, and Will Richard, who put up 18 points in the title game.
Gainesville erupted in celebration, and Horford acknowledged the buzz. “I’m sure it’s wild,” he said with a smile. “This is a special time.”
The championship also marked a milestone for head coach Todd Golden. At just 39 years old, he became the youngest coach to win the NCAA Men’s Championship since 1983.
Back in Boston, while Horford celebrated his alma mater’s success, his NBA team faces serious decisions. The Celtics, valued at $6.1 billion, are nearing the second luxury tax apron, which limits roster flexibility. This financial pressure may force a significant offseason shake-up.
Two players are at the center of speculation—Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday. Porzingis, entering the final year of his contract with a $30.7 million cap hit, might be the most expendable. Holiday is locked into a four-year, $134.4 million extension, with a $32.4 million hit next season.
Insiders have begun suggesting trades could be imminent. One salary cap expert said Boston will eventually have to move players, and another analyst, Brian Scalabrine, singled out Porzingis as the most likely candidate—citing injury concerns and the team’s proven ability to win without him.
So while Horford may envision Clayton in a Celtics jersey, the franchise may need to restructure before welcoming new faces.
April 7 could be remembered not only as Walter Clayton Jr.’s coming-out party, but also as the night Boston began facing tough questions about its future. A rising college star received high praise from a veteran NBA voice, while the Celtics weigh their path forward amid mounting financial challenges.
One thing’s clear: Walter Clayton Jr. has arrived—and if Horford is right, their next meetingmay take place on an NBA court.