‘I’m a Gator for a Long Time’: Todd Golden Talks New Deal After Rejecting \$67.5M NBA Offer
*Gainesville, FL* — University of Florida men’s basketball head coach Todd Golden is reaffirming his commitment to the Gators after turning down a reported \$67.5 million offer from an undisclosed NBA franchise, choosing instead to sign a lucrative contract extension to remain in Gainesville.
Golden, 39, who has led the Gators to back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances and revitalized the program’s national standing, made it clear that Florida is where he wants to be.
“I’m a Gator for a long time,” Golden said at a press conference on Saturday. “This program means everything to me — the fans, the players, the culture we’re building. I believe in what we’re doing here, and I want to see it through.”
The reported NBA offer, which would have made Golden one of the highest-paid coaches at the professional level, came after multiple league sources confirmed he was on the radar of several teams looking to inject youth and analytics-driven strategy into their coaching ranks. Ultimately, Golden opted to stay in college basketball, citing personal values, player development, and unfinished business in Gainesville.
“I’ve always dreamed of coaching at the highest level, and the NBA is obviously that,” Golden acknowledged. “But here at Florida, we’re building something special. The relationships I have with these young men, the chance to impact their lives beyond basketball — that’s something I wouldn’t trade for anything.”
Golden’s new deal with Florida reportedly runs through the 2030–31 season and is worth \$42 million, including performance-based incentives and increased investment in the basketball program’s facilities, recruiting resources, and staff development. According to Athletic Director Scott Stricklin, the commitment is “mutual and long-term.”
“We couldn’t be more thrilled that Coach Golden is staying,” Stricklin said. “He’s brought a new energy and vision to Gators basketball, and he’s someone our athletes trust and respect. His loyalty, especially in the face of such a massive offer, speaks volumes about his character and his belief in this program.”
Since being hired by Florida in 2022 after a successful stint at the University of San Francisco, Golden has compiled a 54–24 record over two seasons, including a Sweet 16 run in 2025 that electrified fans and alumni alike. His up-tempo offense, emphasis on spacing and efficiency, and ability to develop overlooked talent have made the Gators a tough matchup in the SEC.
Golden has also become a fan favorite for his accessibility, media savvy, and down-to-earth demeanor. Despite the swirling NBA rumors, he was seen working the phones during recruiting visits just days before news of his extension broke.
“I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished, but I’m even more excited about what’s ahead,” Golden said. “We’ve got a great recruiting class coming in, our culture is strong, and I think we’re just scratching the surface of what Florida basketball can be.”
Players also expressed excitement about their coach’s decision. Sophomore guard Trey Daniels said Golden’s choice to stay “means everything” to the locker room.
“He’s more than a coach to us,” Daniels said. “He believes in us, and now we’re going to fight that much harder for him.”
With his future now tied to the orange and blue, Todd Golden is sending a message: loyalty still matters in college athletics.
“The NBA will always be there,” Golden said. “But right now, this is home.”
