Florida basketball: Scottie Lewis returning to Gators is a good thing

Pushing aside the allure of the NBA, a Florida basketball guard has decided to stay in Gainesville for his sophomore season. And that is great news for the Gators.

After earning SEC All-Freshman team honors a season ago, Florida basketball guard Scottie Lewis has decided to return for his sophomore season.

The decision pushes aside the lure of jumping to the NBA early.

Lewis posted his decision on his social media accounts on Monday.

"“Gator Nation, as you all know we have some unfinished business! Our season was cut short, and we were not able to complete our season that we were supposed to,” he said. “My dream of playing in the NBA is still a top priority, but my heart is in Gainesville! With that being said, I am more than happy to announce that I will be returning for the 2020-21 season. I want to thank my teammates, my coaching staff and most importantly my family for their unconditional love and support throughout this entire process! I am excited for the journey that lies ahead. My story hasn’t even started, and trust me the best is yet to come!”"

Lewis shined over the last few games of the season — including a 19-point performance against Kentucky.

Over the last four games of the season, he averaged 13 points per game. He also had a double-double against Alabama, scoring 15 points and pulling down 10 rebounds. That performance earned him SEC Freshman of the Week honors.

For the season, Lewis averaged 8.5 points and 3.6 rebounds per game. He also led Florida basketball with 36 blocked shots — the first guard to lead the Gators in that category.

His return is great news for Florida basketball as it fills a key role for the Gators moving forward. Barring any significant issues, Lewis should be a starter next season for Mike White.

He does have some work to do to step up his game. But, considering he shot 44 percent from the field should indicate Lewis can find the basket, he just needs more opportunities to do it.

Lewis was young and erratic at times, which was nothing abnormal considering how the Gators played this season. Another year under his belt should help cure that, but he does have more work to do.

He, too, has to learn consistency on the court and be able to contribute more significantly than he did in his first season in a Gators’ uniform.

That said, Lewis is a player that, with more development, can be a very dangerous shooting option. Coupled with Noah Locke, the two could be a big threat from long range as well.