Condon’s Clutch Heroics Crown Florida Champions - and may impact AFL powerhouse

In a game that will live in March Madness lore, Australian freshman Alex Condon delivered a championship-clinching performance and possibly slammed the door shut on an AFL career in the process.

The 6-foot-11 West Australian was instrumental in the Florida Gators' dramatic 65-63 win over the Houston Cougars in the NCAA Tournament Final, securing the school’s first national title since 2007.

Condon's 6"11 frame allows him to play center against some of the biggest players in college basketball.

Down 12 at the half, the Gators stormed back, and Condon was at the heart of it. He recorded a double-double with 12 points and 13 rebounds, but it was his impact in the final minute that sealed his legacy.

With just under a minute to play, Condon helped force a crucial turnover. Moments later, as Houston scrambled for a final shot, it was Condon who pounced on a loose ball with just one second remaining. A championship-saving hustle play that iced the game and etched his name in Florida basketball history.

Condon is just the sixth Australian to win an NCAA men’s basketball championship, joining a short but notable list that includes Mangok Mathiang (2013) and Kody Stattmann (2019) though neither appeared in their respective finals.

Unlike them, Condon was front and centre under the lights, with the game on the line, and millions watching. His performance not only drew comparisons to past Aussie greats like Andrew Gaze and Luke Schenscher but could have a major impact on his future.

Before committing to college hoops, Condon was signed as a Category B rookie with Collingwood, one of the AFL’s most powerful clubs. The plan was simple: if the NBA dream didn’t materialise, the Magpies would welcome him with open arms.

But after this title run, and particularly his big-game poise, that AFL backup plan might be shelved.

Condon pictured playing in the U18's NAB state champions league.

Condon’s impact also reverberates across Gainesville. This win marks Florida’s third men’s national championship the first since the Gators went back-to-back in 2006 and 2007 under Billy Donovan. Back then, it was Joakim Noah and Al Horford leading the charge. Now, it’s a freshman from Perth stepping up in the spotlight.

In an Instagram post Condon would declare he had entered his name into the 2025 NBA draft, whilst keeping his college eligibility. This action allowing him to test the NBA waters and also return next season for a potential second championship run if he pleases.

In the post Condon would note "Winning a national championship is something I'll always be proud of" referring to the experience as "unforgettable".

Whether he returns to Florida next season or tests NBA waters, one thing is certain, Alex Condon has announced himself as Australia’s next basketball star. And on the biggest night in college basketball, he owned the moment.