Xaivian Lee is doing more than just settling into Gainesville-he’s rewriting Florida basketball history in real time.
The Princeton transfer was named SEC Player of the Week on Monday, marking the fourth time he’s earned the honor this season. That’s not just impressive-it’s unprecedented.
No Florida player has ever claimed four SEC Player of the Week awards in a single campaign. Not Bradley Beal.
Not Al Horford. Not even Joakim Noah during the Gators’ back-to-back title runs.
Lee is in a lane of his own right now.
It’s been a bit of a rollercoaster season for Lee, who’s had stretches of inconsistency. But when he’s on, he’s looked like one of the most dynamic guards in the country. And this past week, he was most definitely on.
Let’s start with the midweek matchup: a rivalry road game against Georgia. Lee dropped 18 points on 14 shots, showcasing that blend of scoring efficiency and control that’s become his calling card. But he wasn’t just filling it up-he was facilitating too, dishing out 7 assists and steering the Gators’ offense with poise.
Then came Saturday’s heavyweight clash with Kentucky. In one of the biggest games of the season, Lee delivered again-22 points on 7-of-14 shooting, and arguably Florida’s most impactful player on the floor. It was his first 20-point outing since January 17 against Vanderbilt, and it couldn’t have come at a better time.
What makes Lee’s recent surge even more meaningful is how it’s aligning with Florida’s broader goals. The Gators are 10-2 in SEC play and very much in the hunt for a regular season conference title. And if they’re going to make another deep NCAA Tournament run, it’s clear Lee will be at the heart of it.
He’s not just putting up numbers-he’s delivering when it matters most. And with South Carolina on deck Tuesday night, the Gators will be leaning on their star guard once again to keep the momentum rolling.
Right now, Xaivian Lee isn’t just playing well-he’s making history.