Florida Gators guard Alijah Martin proved himself to be a steady combo guard across five seasons at the college level. Which teams may be a fit for the Gators’ veteran guard?
5 Potential Landing Spots for Alijah Martin
Martin began his career with the Florida Atlantic Owls, helping lead the program to its first Final Four run in school history in 2023. After four seasons, he decided to transfer to Florida for his final year of eligibility.
At 6’2″, 210 pounds, Martin gave the Gators a consistent scorer and a rugged defender. He averaged a career-high 14.5 ppg and shot 45.5% from the field in his lone season in Gainesville. Another deep tournament run ensued, making Martin the first player in NCAA history to reach the Final Four with two different programs.
OH MY GOODNESS ALIJAH MARTIN POSTER 😱#MarchMadness @GatorsMBK pic.twitter.com/JFyVsSaOT1
— NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessMBB) April 6, 2025
As the Gators’ veteran guard is set to enter the NBA Draft, he’s projected as a late second-round to undrafted prospect. What teams will likely take a shot on Martin late in the draft?
New York Knicks
Currently holding a pick in the early 50s, Martin fits head coach Tom Thibodeau’s ideal play style. A strong guard, although undersized, Martin would have a good chance to carve out a bench role for the Knicks.
New York is likely looking to add veteran players in the draft, and the former five-year college player fits that bill exactly. With Jalen Brunson, the lead man, Martin would likely assume a similar role that he does with the Gators: second fiddle to Walter Clayton Jr. and provider of highlight-reel dunks while hitting open threes.
The Knicks serve as the best fit for Martin.
Indiana Pacers
The Pacers deploy an uptempo, fast-paced play style similar to Florida’s. Martin has become excellent at taking advantage of fast-break situations, always a candidate for a poster slam—much like his slam against the Auburn Tigers in the Final Four.
As a late pick, the Pacers would be wise to select Martin and welcome his familiarity with their system while getting a tough, strong defender who they can use against opposing guards to take them out of the game.
Without as much stress on his offensive scoring, Martin should be able to step into a role as a shutdown defender. Combine that with fast-break opportunities, and he would thrive in Indiana.
Memphis Grizzlies
Known as a team that turns late-round picks into impact players, the Grizzlies tend to search for players similar to Martin. He fits Memphis’s MO of being physical and tough.
The Grizzlies just traded veteran guard Marcus Smart at the trade deadline; although not at as high a level, Martin has a similar play style and could help fill that role while having more room to grow as a younger player.
Cleveland Cavaliers
A contending team, the Cavaliers are sure to be in the market for a player like Martin. A proven winner, the former Owls and Gators guard has been around the block and knows what it takes to win. In joining Cleveland, Martin would carry a winning attitude and an ability to carve out minutes on the court in his rookie season.
The Cavaliers aren’t looking for rookies who are projects; Martin is about as finished a product as they come. Head coach Kenny Atkinson’s wide-open offensive approach would fit him well.
Houston Rockets
Head coach Ime Udoka, another team known for its toughness, would welcome Martin to the roster with open arms. His grit and tenacity would be celebrated daily, and Martin would have a path to play time early in his rookie season.
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Additionally, the Rockets need a scoring punch. Along with defense, Martin could produce in fast-break situations by knocking down open shots—something he did well with the Gators.
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