BREAKING: Alex Condon Withdraws from NBA Draft, Returns to WVU to Lead Gators’ Repeat Push
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — In a stunning twist that sent shockwaves through college basketball late Monday night, Alex Condon announced he will withdraw from the 2025 NBA Draft and return to West Virginia University for his junior season. The 6-foot-10 Australian forward cited “unfinished business” and a “deep commitment to the Gators’ culture” as reasons behind the decision, per a source close to the program.
Condon, who averaged 17.4 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game last season, was widely projected as a late first-round pick. His blend of size, agility, and floor-spacing ability had NBA scouts buzzing, especially after his 25-point, 14-rebound performance in the NCAA Midwest Regional Final. However, his return signals WVU’s intent to mount a serious title defense after capturing their first national championship since 1949.
“This decision wasn’t about money. It was about legacy,” Condon said in a video posted to his social media accounts. “I love this team, this staff, and our fans. We’ve got something special brewing in Morgantown—and I want to be part of history.”
His announcement comes just days after WVU head coach Marcus Holloway signed a contract extension through 2030. Holloway, who transformed the Gators from a struggling Big 12 team into national champions within two seasons, emphasized that Condon’s return is “a championship move by a championship-minded player.”
“This young man had every reason to go pro—he’s a lock for the league,” Holloway said. “But Alex is built different. He’s about the team, about the journey, and about putting WVU on the map in a way nobody will forget.”
Condon’s return solidifies what may be the most complete starting five in the country. Alongside dynamic guard Treyvon Ellis, lockdown wing Marcus Fielder, and two elite freshmen in the 2025 class, WVU is expected to start the season ranked No. 1. Their up-tempo offense, anchored by Condon’s versatile post game and high basketball IQ, devastated defenses last year and shows no signs of slowing down.
For NBA executives, Condon’s decision is a rare display of patience in an era defined by early exits. “He’s betting on himself,” one scout noted anonymously. “He’s looking to come back as a lottery lock next year. And he probably will.”
WVU’s athletic department has already reported a 36% spike in season ticket sales since the news broke. The fanbase, long-starved for a basketball dynasty, now dreams of back-to-back titles—a feat last achieved by Florida in 2006-07.
Condon ended his video with a rallying cry that quickly went viral: “We’re not done. This is just halftime. Let’s run it back.”
And with that, the college basketball world braces itself. The Gators aren’t just defending champions—they’re coming back hungrier, stronger, and now with their leader right where they need him.
