When the Florida Gators went for international recruits in 2023—instead of American high schoolers, the program chose Aleks Szymczyk and Alex Condon. A pair of front-court stars from Germany and Australia, respectively. While Aleks Szymczyk’s career took a major hit with his season-long absence due to injury, Alex Condon remained available and was eager to shine. Interestingly, he had offers from Utah and St. Mary’s.

“I chose Florida because I believe that it was the best fit for me,” Condon justified his commitment to the program. “They are great people, and the new coach is young and enthusiastic. Everyone was really welcoming.” Just two years in and the star became their lethal forward.

In the 2023-24 season, Condon averaged more points and minutes than the team’s regular starter Micah Handlogten. His fighting nature and hustle set him apart from the players of his age. “I think I can work harder than anyone else.” Condon said. “I come from an Australian football background, which is very physical and a lot of running. I am willing to do what a lot of other 6-foot-11 guys aren’t willing to do. Like box out and get hard rebounds and dive on the floor. I bring intensity and grit to the team.”

Yes, basketball was not his first sport. Condon is a multi-sport star who played Australian rules football, cricket and water polo growing up. But then he fell in love with the orange ball and took up the sport as his professional option.

When asked how he turned to basketball, he said, “Officially, I started playing at a really high level four or five years ago (in 2018). I was just like in school basketball, and I grew about six inches grade 10 to 11. I was playing footy (Australian rules football) on the side, too. But after that growth spurt is pretty much a no-brainer to go basketball and see how far I could go with that.”

Still going stronger and bigger, Condon’s growth on the court is quite astonishing. Getting smarter on defenses, shot selections and draining important shots—Condon ticked all the requirements to become the Gators’ lethal weapon. Still, in his second season Todd Golden’s Florida Gators, Condon was even dragged into NBA Draft talks.

How come the teenager grew quickly into the sport? Well, apart from his hard work, his genes might have something to say about this. Check out details about Alex Condon’s parents.

Who is Alex Condon’s father, Damien?

Alex Condon’s special feature—his strong build is from his father, if you may say so. Alex’s father, Damien, played professional Australian rules football and represented the East Fremantle Football Club.

Who is Alex Condon’s mother? Was she a professional athlete?

Leah Condon, Alex Condon’s mother, was born Leah Broderick. She’s a former professional swimmer. And as per Alex’s official Florida Gators bio, she represented the Australian National Team. Furthermore, she also took part in the FINA World Championships and Pan Pacific Championships as part of the Australian team.

What is Alex Condon’s parents’ nationality?

Alex Condon’s parents, Leah and Damien, are both Australian citizens. Both were athletes and played at the highest level in their respective sports. Their work ethic and dedication to sport inspired Alex, who is now making his name in the basketball world.

As the young forward leaps towards new heights with the Gators, the big question is—how far will he go?