Riley Kugel is ready to make his mark at the University of Central Florida (UCF) following a challenging journey through college basketball. After transferring from the University of Florida, where he had high expectations, Kugel is eager to embrace his leadership role as the Knights prepare for the upcoming season.
Kugel, a 6-foot-5 shooting guard, began his college career at Florida after an impressive tenure at Dr. Phillips High School, where he helped lead the Panthers to their first state championship in 2021. As part of Todd Golden‘s inaugural recruiting class, he arrived in Gainesville with aspirations of quickly advancing to the NBA. Yet, his time at Florida did not unfold as planned.
In his freshman year, Kugel played in 32 games, averaging 9.9 points and 2.8 rebounds per game. Despite being named a preseason All-SEC selection ahead of his sophomore year, he faced stiff competition, particularly from experienced teammates. Kugel acknowledged, “I was playing with Colin Castleton, the best center in the nation… It helped me and humbled me.” By the end of his second season, he was no longer a focal point of the team and found himself on the bench during critical moments.
Kugel considered entering the NBA draft after his sophomore year, but decided against it, realizing he needed to develop further. “Everybody has a different decision as to what they want you to do, but I had to make an executive decision for my future,” he explained. Aiming to improve his defensive skills, he transferred to Mississippi State, where he averaged 9.3 points and 3 rebounds over 33 games.
After one season in Starkville, Kugel entered the transfer portal again, initially committing to the University of Kansas. Ultimately, he returned home to Orlando, joining UCF under coach Johnny Dawkins. This season, he is part of a large group of newcomers, bringing experience as one of three seniors on the roster.
“I came here to be a leader,” Kugel said. His focus is not only on being a vocal presence but also on setting an example through hard work and dedication. He expressed a desire to get mentored by UCF’s coaching staff, particularly Kelvin Johnson, to refine his leadership skills.
Kugel’s on-court impact has already been significant. In two exhibition games, he has totalled 43 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 assists. He recorded 22 points in a loss against No. 6 Duke and followed that performance with 21 points and 7 assists against LSU. As the season opener approaches, Kugel is excited to play in front of family and friends, with the Knights set to host Hofstra on November 3, 2023, at Addition Financial Arena.
“My mom lives six hours away and she’s probably been at my house five times already since I’ve been here,” Kugel shared with a smile, reflecting on his support system.
Kugel has also connected with former UCF players, including Taylor Hendricks, who was selected by the Utah Jazz as the ninth overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. He has sought advice from former guards Jordan Ivy-Curry and Darius Johnson, whose experiences offer valuable insights as he navigates his own career.
Looking ahead, Kugel has clear ambitions for his final college season. “Hopefully to be an All-American and win a lot of games,” he stated. He is determined to lead UCF to the NCAA tournament and aims to make a deep run, if not win it all.
As Kugel settles into his role, his journey reflects resilience and a commitment to growth, both personally and as a player. With his sights set on a successful season, the basketball community in Orlando is eager to see how his leadership will shape the Knights’ performance this year.
