Rockets Draft Target Alex Condon Returns to Florida

Inside Downtown Houston, where Rockets draft chatter never stays quiet for long, one name just came off the board. Alex Condon, a forward who had been mentioned as a possible fit for the Houston Rockets, announced he is returning to Florida and withdrawing from the 2025 NBA Draft.

That decision matters because Houston entered this draft cycle with flexibility and a roster that still invites questions about frontcourt depth, shooting, and long-term rotation pieces. Condon had drawn interest as a productive college big with size and feel, the kind of player teams in the Rockets' range could evaluate closely.

Condon helped Florida during the 2024-25 season and built enough momentum to test the draft process. Players in his spot often use that window to gather feedback from NBA teams, then decide whether to stay in or head back to school. Condon chose the college route, which means one fewer potential target for teams sorting through the middle portion of the first round and beyond.

Alex Condon exits the Rockets draft mix

Houston has been linked to a wide group of prospects as the franchise weighs how to build around its young core. Condon's return to Florida removes a frontcourt option from that pool. For the Rockets, that shifts attention to other forwards and centers who can offer rebounding, passing, defensive mobility, or floor spacing.

The appeal with Condon came from his size and all-around college production. Prospects with a blend of interior presence and ball skills tend to draw real interest, especially from teams that value versatility. Houston has leaned into that kind of profile under its current front office, so his name made sense in draft conversations.

Houston still has options as the draft board changes

Draft season changes fast. A single return-to-school announcement can alter who is available, who rises, and which teams pivot toward another need. That is part of the equation for the Rockets, who remain in position to assess multiple paths, including keeping a pick, moving it, or targeting a different type of prospect.

Condon's move also says something broader about this class. College players with strong NIL opportunities and a chance to raise their stock next season do not have to rush into the draft. Returning to campus can make sense if a player believes another year will improve his draft standing and role projection.

Houston's next draft steps will come into sharper focus as the withdrawal deadline passes and team workouts continue. For now, the Rockets draft board is down one name, and Florida gets a proven contributor back for another season.

This article is a summary of reporting by Sports Illustrated. Read the full story here.