Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Walter Clayton Jr. Drafted No. 18, Traded to Utah Jazz

His national title run at Florida vaulted him into first-round consideration, setting him up with a four-year rookie deal valued at $19.32 million.

Image
Image
Walter Clayton Jr. reacts after being selected 18th by the Washington Wizards in the first round of the NBA basketball draft, Wednesday, June 25, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Former Arkansas Razorbacks guard Boogie Fland (2) against former Florida Gators guard Walter Clayton Jr. (1).

Overview

  • The Washington Wizards selected Clayton with the 18th overall pick on June 25 and then sent him to the Jazz in exchange for the 21st pick plus multiple second-round selections.
  • During his senior season at Florida he averaged 18.3 points, 4.2 assists and sank 120 three-pointers en route to the NCAA championship.
  • Clayton attended the draft at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, returning to the New York area where he began his college career at Iona University.
  • Florida coach Todd Golden lauded Clayton’s coachability, leadership and relentless work ethic following his standout collegiate run.
  • He became the 13th Florida Gator taken in the opening round since Neal Walk’s selection in 1969.