After dipping his toes in NBA waters and exploring transfer options, Florida State basketball forward Jamir Watkins is set to return to the Seminoles. If confirmed, this decision could be a game-changer for the ‘Noles' upcoming season.

The initial report came from CBS Sports' Jon Rothstein, and Florida State University later confirmed it.

Jamir Watkins long winding return to Florida State basketball

Florida State Seminoles forward Jamir Watkins (2) dunks the ball against the Virginia Tech Hokies in the second half at Capital One Arena.
Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

The 6-foot-7 Watkins, a redshirt junior, initially entered the NBA Draft on April 24th and simultaneously joined the NCAA Transfer Portal, a move confirmed by May 2nd, the portal's entry deadline. However, just before the early withdrawal deadline on May 29th, he opted out of the NBA Draft. Following his withdrawal, he was linked with schools like Michigan and St. John's, among others.

Watkins was the top scorer for the Seminoles, averaging 15.6 points per game, and also led the team with six rebounds and 2.8 assists per game. His shooting percentages were solid, hitting 45.7% from the field and 34.4% from beyond the arc. He also had decent numbers at the free throw line shooting 79.5% earning him an honorable mention in the All-ACC selections for last year.

Watkins’ return is highly encouraging for Florida State, given the numerous departures the team has experienced through the transfer portal this offseason. Players like Jalen Warley, Cam’Ron Fletcher, Cam Corhen, Primo Spears, Baba Miller, De’Ante Green, and Tom House have all opted to explore opportunities in the transfer market.

Some new additions

Florida State's roster has notably shifted from last season, with only Jamir Watkins among the top six scorers returning to Tallahassee. The team has brought in two transfers, Jerry Deng from Hampton and Bostyn Holt from South Dakota. As things stand, the starting lineup is projected to feature Chandler Jackson, Jamir Watkins, Bostyn Holt, Taylor Bol Bowen, and Malique Ewin.

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The Seminoles have also secured commitments from three high school players: Daquan Davis (four-star), AJ Swinton (three-star), and Christian Nitu (three-star).

Bringing Watkins back into the fold not only strengthens FSU's roster with a proven, impactful player but also injects much-needed experience and leadership into a team that has undergone significant turnover.

Seminoles still with gaps to fill

FSU's roster still has gaps to fill, particularly in terms of additional wing options and a center. However, the return of Watkins is immensely significant. Ranked sixth in On3's transfer portal rankings and one of the remaining uncommitted options in the Top 100, Watkins' impact is considerable.

With some strategic additions during the rest of the offseason, Florida State might not have as tough a season ahead as some predictions suggested.

Over the past two seasons, Florida State has shown improvement, with Jamir Watkins playing a significant role. The team won just nine games in 2022-23 but boosted that to 17 wins in 2023-24. In ACC play, they held a 10-10 record and proved competitive against teams like North Carolina.

It'll be intriguing to observe how head coach Leonard Hamilton continues to attract talent to join Watkins in Tallahassee.