In a candid and insightful interview on The Paul Finebaum Show, Walter Clayton, the star guard of the Florida Gators, shared new details about his recruitment process, shedding light on the factors that ultimately led him to choose Todd Golden’s program over Rick Pitino’s St. John’s.
Clayton’s journey began at Iona, where he spent two seasons under Pitino’s guidance, culminating in an NCAA Tournament appearance in his second year. With Pitino’s departure to St. John’s, Clayton was faced with a difficult decision: follow his coach to New York City or explore other options. Initially, Clayton admits that joining Pitino at St. John’s was the plan, but a visit to his family in Florida proved to be a turning point.
During his visit, Clayton was introduced to the Florida Gators program, and the more he learned, the more he felt a sense of belonging. The team’s environment, the coaching staff’s vision, and the opportunity to be closer to his family, including his newborn daughter, all contributed to Clayton’s decision to commit to Todd Golden’s program.
The move has proven to be a resounding success for both Clayton and the Gators. Under Golden’s guidance, Clayton has flourished, earning first-team All-American honors and leading the team to a number one seed in the NCAA Tournament. The Gators’ Sweet Sixteen appearance marks their first since 2017, and Clayton’s performances have been instrumental in their postseason run.
Clayton’s personal growth and development under Golden’s tutelage have been remarkable. Averaging 17.9 points per game while shooting 44.6% from the field and 38.7% from three, Clayton has established himself as one of the nation’s premier guards. His 23-point performances in the Gators’ wins over Norfolk State and UConn have been particularly impressive, showcasing his ability to rise to the occasion on the biggest stage.
As Clayton and the Gators continue their NCAA Tournament journey, their success serves as a testament to the power of family, personal growth, and the right coaching environment. Clayton’s decision to choose Florida over St. John’s has proven to be a wise one, and his story offers a compelling reminder of the importance of prioritizing personal and family considerations in the recruitment process.
