Urban Klavzar caps off Florida's diverse basketball lineup

The University of Florida men's basketball team has put the final piece in place for their 2024-25 season roster. Swamp247 reported yesterday that the Gators are adding Slovenian guard Urban Klavzar to fill their last scholarship spot. This move not only completes the team's lineup but also shows head coach Todd Golden's commitment to building a diverse, international squad.

Klavzar, a 6-foot-1 sharpshooter, brings a wealth of experience from his time in Spain's competitive basketball leagues. During the 2023-24 season with CD Estela Cantabria in the Primera FEB, Klavzar averaged 8.9 points per game while shooting an impressive 47.7% from the field and 42.7% from beyond the arc.

The 20-year-old guard's international pedigree extends beyond club play. His recent performance at the U20 European Championship with the Slovenian National Team further highlights his potential, where he averaged 15.4 points, 3.9 assists, and 2.1 rebounds per game.

Klavzar's addition marks the second international recruit for the Gators this offseason, following the enrollment of Serbian center Viktor Mikic. This trend reflects Coach Golden's global approach to talent acquisition, with five international players joining the program in the three years since he took over.

The Gators' roster now has a mix of returning talent, Division I transfers, and fresh recruits. Notable additions include former Florida Atlantic guard Alijah Martin, Washington State center Reuben Chinyelu, Chattanooga forward Sam Alexis, and four-star combo guard Isaiah Brown.

Returning players like Walter Clayton, Will Richard, and Alex Condon will provide continuity and experience to a team coming off a successful 2023-24 campaign. The Gators' 24-win season, their best since 2016-17, saw them reach the SEC Tournament championship game and make a return to the NCAA Tournament after a two-year absence.

As the team looks ahead, the point guard position remains a focal point. With the departure of key playmaker Zyon Pullin, Coach Golden envisions a committee approach, with Klavzar joining Martin, Clayton, Aberdeen, and Kublickas in sharing ball-handling duties.

While the Gators face the challenge of replacing Pullin's leadership and playmaking abilities, the addition of Klavzar rounds out what Florida hopes will be a squad that can take a step forward in 2024/25.