By: Eric Fawcett -- May 17, 2023 In the search for another ball handler to add depth to the backcourt the Gators will be welcoming Saint Peter’s transfer Jaylen Murray to campus for a visit May 29-31 as reported by Andrew Slater. Saint Peter’s Point Guard Jaylen Murray Set To Visit Florida | GatorCountry.com
In case anyone is wondering, @beechgator was referring to the story: (T)hey’ve got to keep doing what they’re doing and try to land the best players the market has left. At this point the Gators are also looking for fit. They could see Murray as a microwave scorer off the bench who brings something no one else does, and are banking on his strong analytical numbers as a pick and roll ball handler.
He may actually be a better fit for the Gators than a couple of bigger names we've missed on recently. Murray can obviously compete at a high level, but probably won't come in with an expectation of being the starter at PG from day one. He's younger and has time to grow into the role over a couple of years.
Definitely fits their trend of looking for kids with exceptionally high usage rate. Not a real efficient player, but scored 12+ ppg in under 25 mpg as a part time starter. Shot it much better from three on more shots as a sophomore. No clue on his defense, but would be a solid rotation player if he brings any effort on that end of the court. Basically what we wanted Bonham to be: bench scoring punch.
Bonham had a couple of good games early for us but couldn't sustain it. Maybe the tape exposed his limitations. I dunno, I really thought he would be a much better player for us.
This seems like a good fit. Multiple years of eligibility, knows that he'll be coming off the bench and can handle the rock. 83% FT shooter, improved his 3P% from 32 to 36% in his sophomore year. Didn't start until late in the year and scored 20 or more points in 3 of his last 5 games. Watched a little tape on him and his speed and quickness will transfer over to the SEC imo. The issue will be his size, but I noticed that due to that, he does have range beyond the 3 point line. He has a nice stroke, so the potential to improve on that is there. The SEC, of course, will be an adjustment, but playing behind Clayton seems like a great fit for him to learn and grow. I've seen comparisons to Bonham and that makes sense in terms of height and coming from a lower level D1 conference, but I do see some differences. Murray looks to be a little more crafty and in control getting to the rim and seems to have a little better of a handle. However, Murray is fairy thin, unlike Bonham who was stocky, so this could be a major issue for Murray in the SEC. However, he can fit the backup pg role nicely next year with some upside if he can get his 3 point % to close to 40%. Will need to bulk up, but Florida's weight program I'm sure will help. I like the move if Golden can get him on board.
Yep. Between Clayton, Richard, and Murray, we would have perhaps the best free-throw shooting guards in the nation. That translates into additional wins. Kugel, Handlogten, and Samuels need to work on their free throws, but Jarvis is pretty good at over 71%.
I would have to think that Claytons FT proficiency will have a real positive effect on the rest of the team, especially Kugel.
Think positive Donell. This kid could give us a little NYC flair and set himself up for professional basketball! Come on Jaylen, we have had Ervin, White Chocolate, Jason Williams, now it is your turn to rattle the Basketball Nation and be part of a resurgence in Gainseville!
I hope everybody is happy and hopefully CTG can bring the bacon home. Jaylen Murray is a highlight show, Pullin we have have two like him, good all round player, tough, good shooter good defender and can run the fast break. I would be estatic with both and hope they know we are going to the tournament this year.
Methinks the cost for backups is getting pricey. We shall see what happens with Pullin. Not that he would be a backup per se, but whether we are going to get into a bidding war.
