The Miami Heat could be bringing a hometown hero back to the Sunshine State.
In the latest 2025 NBA Mock Draft, the Heat are projected to select Walter Clayton Jr., a standout guard from the University of Florida, with the 20th overall pick. The 6’3″, 195-pound guard is coming off a sensational season in which he led the Gators to a national championship and earned Most Outstanding Player honors during the NCAA Tournament.
Despite his college heroics, Clayton Jr. isn’t projected to be a lottery pick, a testament to the depth and talent in this year’s draft class. But for a team like Miami, known for developing and maximizing talent, this could be the perfect match.
Player Profile: Walter Clayton Jr.
Height/Weight: 6’3″, 195 lbs
Position: PG/SG
Age: 22
Nationality: USA
Pro Comps: Payton Pritchard, Cole Anthony
2024–25 Stats:
18.3 PPG
3.7 RPG
4.2 APG
1.2 SPG
High-efficiency shooting, clutch performer
Clayton Jr. combines scoring ability, playmaking, and composure—all traits the Heat value highly. His mature game and championship pedigree would fit seamlessly into Erik Spoelstra’s system, potentially giving Miami a reliable contributor off the bench or a future starter at the guard position.
South Florida fans, get ready—Walter Clayton Jr. could soon be trading in his Gators orange and blue for Heat red and black. And if history has taught us anything, under the Heat’s development program, late-round gems often turn into game-changers.
