Former Princeton Point Guard Xaivian Lee Commits to National Champion Florida in Major Addition to Gators’ Roster
GAINESVILLE, Fla. — In a major boost to the reigning national champions, former Princeton star point guard Xaivian Lee has announced his commitment to the University of Florida, giving the Gators a dynamic new floor general for the 2025-26 season. Lee, a two-time All-Ivy League First Team selection, transfers from Princeton after a breakout junior season and will play his final year of college basketball under head coach Todd Golden.
Lee, a 6-foot-4 Canadian guard from Toronto, emerged as one of the most electrifying playmakers in Ivy League history, averaging 16.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game last season. His combination of size, vision, scoring touch, and court IQ has made him one of the most coveted players in the transfer portal this offseason. Florida’s acquisition of Lee is not only a major statement but also a strategic move to fill the void left by the departure of All-American guard Walter Clayton Jr., who declared for the NBA Draft after leading the Gators to the national title.
“This is a tremendous opportunity for me to compete at the highest level of college basketball and continue growing as a player,” Lee said in a statement. “I’m grateful to Princeton for everything, and now I’m excited to join a championship program like Florida. I can’t wait to get started with my new teammates.”
Lee’s decision came after visits to several high-profile programs, including Kansas and St. John’s, but Florida’s recent national title, strong player development culture, and need for an experienced lead guard sealed the deal. His recruitment was managed by his agent, George S. Langberg, who confirmed that Lee will also re-enter the NBA Draft process while preparing for his lone season in the SEC.
At Princeton, Lee steadily rose through the ranks, becoming a fan favorite and a team leader. He played in 91 games over three seasons and finished his career with the Tigers averaging 12.7 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.3 assists. His junior year was particularly spectacular, where he posted several double-doubles and even recorded the first triple-double in program history — a 21-point, 13-rebound, 10-assist performance in a win over Saint Joseph’s.
Lee’s impact goes beyond the stat sheet. His pace control, sharp decision-making, and ability to create for others make him a perfect fit in Florida’s high-tempo, modern offensive system. Head coach Todd Golden praised Lee’s maturity and basketball IQ.
“Xaivian brings everything we look for in a Florida Gator — leadership, toughness, and a hunger to win,” Golden said. “We were looking for someone who could step in right away and run the team, and he checked every box. He’s got the experience, the talent, and the mindset to make an immediate impact.”
Florida, coming off a thrilling run to the national championship, returns a strong core but had clear needs at the guard position after losing multiple starters to graduation and the NBA. The addition of Lee now gives the Gators a proven lead guard who can take over games when needed but also elevate those around him — a trait that became a trademark during his time at Princeton.
Lee will be expected to assume a leadership role quickly in Gainesville, where expectations will be sky-high following last season’s success. With his unique background coming from the Ivy League and international basketball experience representing Canada, he brings a mature and diverse perspective to the locker room.
College basketball analysts have praised Florida’s aggressive transfer strategy and see Lee’s commitment as one of the biggest wins of the offseason.
“He’s the type of player that makes everyone better,” ESPN’s college basketball insider Jeff Borzello said. “You don’t often see a player with his résumé come from the Ivy League and immediately fit into a top-tier program like Florida — but Xaivian Lee is that rare exception. This is a major, major get.”
For Lee, it’s a chance to prove himself on a national stage and prepare for professional basketball. For Florida, it’s the latest piece in what could be another championship puzzle. With Xaivian Lee at the helm, the Gators may not just be reloading —
they could be repeating.
Leave a Reply