WINNERS: Florida, UConn, Duke retain ELITE talent, while North Carolina loses at NBA Draft deadline

Florida Gators surge as NBA Draft early entry deadline shakes up college basketball power rankings. Star forward Thomas Haugh, projected as a lottery pick, stuns observers by returning to Gainesville, joining Alex Condon and Reuben Chinyelu to solidify Florida’s frontcourt. UConn, Duke, and Illinois also emerge as major winners, but North Carolina reels after losing Henri Veesaar with few reliable big men left in the transfer portal. Which programs made the right moves—and who’s scrambling after deadline surprises?

Isaac Schade and Andy Patton break down the biggest winners and losers from this pivotal window, spotlighting teams like Michigan and Arizona, who face both gains and setbacks. Will Andrej Stojakovic boost Illinois by returning, or will high-profile prospects leave more programs in crisis? Get expert insights on the ripple effects of NIL, the thinning big man market, and the future of top contenders as rosters take shape for next season.

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