This is such an exciting addition. I’d be surprised if he is used as a pg, but this kid as an absolute player. I love this pick up. He brings a toughness, attitude, athleticism and defensive physicality …. in addition to his explosive offensive ability.
Here are the facts. All Martin has been promised is that he will get the chance to be a primary ball handler not THE primary ball handler. Look for that as of now to be split amongst Clayton, Martin, Aberdeen. Martin is a great addition because of all the skills he brings to the table. He is an ELITE defender. And has plenty of offensive skill which has already been broken down. What hasn’t been shared is this kid is an outright winner!! He wants to be great. He wants to win games/championships. One of the big items he was considering when transferring was playing with other players who were unselfish and wanted to win as a team. This is a high character young man!! We will see if we add another pure pg but don’t be terribly surprised is we don’t add another big name pg, unless Clayton were to leave. That is unlikely but still possible.
yes- I edited my post to reflect that possibility. I have watched most of his college career in person. I’m not sure I see that transition, but we will find out. I’m thrilled to have him!
I'll tell you what... looking at his highlights I don't think any player in the country holds the pose after a made three pointer better than Alijah Martin.
One other thing, not that it matters much but the articles about him all mention who he chose UF over. They don’t mention all the programs that reached out to him. There were several top 10 teams that we’re interested. So while we all correctly converse about the fit, have no doubt we added a valuable player.
I believe Clayton could be an excellent pg if he worked hard at it. Maybe not ever have the instincts of an elite born to it. However I think we all want to see him at the 2 and get even better there.
I actually would not like a big name PG because of the opportunity cost that would come from a loss of NIL money that could be better allocated elsewhere. I would instead love to see us look for a Scottie Wilbelkin type PG. Capable scorer, but not enough to command much attention from big programs (and drive up the price, as well as the effort needed to get them) but a great ball handler, passer, defender and initiator of the offense. (Edit: I should clarify Im talking about freshman Scottie. Senior Scottie was damn good offensively too)
that would be nice if we can find that. And I agree that’s the kind of guy we would maybe add if Clayton comes back.
NIL aside, I actually want someone who will be back next year. Clayton, Richard, and Martin will all be gone. Some continuity is very desirable, IMO.
"I wanted to stay in the South to play in the SEC, the strongest conference in America," Martin said. "I wanted a chance to be a primary ball handler and compete for a national title, at a program known for NBA talent and developing players for the next level."
Of course, but that comes before winning the 2 Natty's. Perhaps I should have stated "appearances" plural.
Welcome Elijah! Thanks for coming to the Gators. Love your game and toughness. From a soft team under the last regime, to a team that is going to be tough on everybody. Also, thanks to CTG and his recruiting crew.