Last week, Arkansas freshman Boogie Fland entered the transfer portal just hours before the deadline. In his Instagram post announcing the decision, Fland explained that his primary goal was to move on to the NBA, and he only entered the portal to keep his options open. However, with recent rumors circulating, returning to college may now present a more lucrative opportunity for him.
If Fland decides to return to college, Florida might already be positioning itself to land him. According to Bo Mattingly of The Chuck & Bo Show, the deal could potentially reach as high as $7 million.
Boogie Fland to Florida basketball for $7 million?
“I was surprised to hear what I’m about to tell you. I believe that Boogie Fland—if he doesn’t stay in the draft—could end up getting 5, 6, maybe $7 million,” Mattingly shared.
“Good for him,” added the show’s executive producer, Bart Pohlman, immediately.
That would certainly be a fantastic deal for Boogie Fland, especially considering the talent Arkansas has on its roster. If he were to return to the Razorbacks, the financial offer wouldn’t be anywhere near what’s on the table elsewhere. Plus, with players like Darius Acuff and DJ Wagner in the mix, earning playing time at point guard could prove more challenging than it’s worth.
If the Gators are willing to put up that kind of money, it would be hard to fault Fland for making the jump to an SEC rival, particularly one that’s coming off a national championship win. But why would he choose college over the NBA? The answer lies in the potential for him to make more in college than he would in the pros.
In the 2024 NBA draft, only the top 11 players earned more than $5 million. Fland is projected to go anywhere from the late first round to the middle of the second, meaning he could sign a contract worth up to $4 million or, at worst, end up with a two-way deal that offers little to no guaranteed money.
Ultimately, Fland will make the decision that’s best for him. But if he heads to Gainesville, Bo Mattingly put it best: “Man, good for you. We love you. We’re still family. Go get your money.” Because, realistically, he’s not getting that kind of offer from Arkansas.
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