Being a part of the Final Four is a regular feat for Alijah Martin, as he’s been there not once, not twice, but a good four times. It’s not every day that we come across such talented players qualifying for the NCAA national championship for that number! Martin made history as he became the second player ever since legend Steve Krafcisin to appear in the Final Four with 2 different teams- as an FAU Owl and as a Florida Gator, respectively. Whether the Gators win or lose is a different equation already- but this season of March Madness marks a personal high for Martin, who made it this far, again.

Well, this is not the only reason the 2024-25 season is special for Martin. The lockdown defender’s remarkable 14.5 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.3 assists in 36 games in the Big Dance led the Gators to San Antonio. His determination, passion, grit, and resilience are getting noticed in the NBA circles. And with this, Martin’s extraordinary performance in this season can land him in one of the best NBA teams out there. So, let us examine the top 5 teams where the Florida star is expected to land:

1. San Antonio Spurs: A Perfect Fit for Scoring Depth and Development

Centred around their key player, Victor Wembanyama, the San Antonio Spurs are in dire need of athletic wing scorers like Martin. Though Wembanyama is a deadly combination of height and agility, Martin brings court domination, fast thinking, and swiftness.

Alijah’s 14.6 PPG and 45.8 FG% in this season clearly suggest that he can bring an immediate offensive impact off the bench. Besides this, his NCAA experience and poise, with an average of 15.2 PPG in last 5 games, highlight his ability to perform wonderfully under high-pressure situations.

Being a guard for the Gators will be a dream come true for Alijah Martin. Why? The Spurs President Gregg Popovich has a history of nurturing guards like Tony Parker and Manu Ginóbili. This makes San Antonio an ideal team for Martin’s development where he can become an asset for the team while working upon his NCAA skills.

2. Miami Heat: Toughness and Two-Way Potential Align with “Heat Culture”

The Miami Heat is popularly known for scouting and developing under-the-radar talents, the ones who are gritty as well as defensive minded. This indicates strong chances of being drafted in the Heat as these are the very traits that Martin possesses.

Alijah’s 1.5 STL and solid defensive numbers make him a fantastic candidate to thrive in Erik Spoelstra’s system. As the head coach, Spolestra focuses mainly on players’ defensive strategies, adaptability to all kinds of situations, and toughness. Though Martin reflects some of these qualities, it will be refreshing to see the duo together.

On the other hand, Martin’s 35.5% from beyond the arc in 2024–25 perfectly fits in lie with the Heat’s need for reliable perimeter shooters alongside stars like Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo. The Miami heat is one of those teams that will leave no stone unturned for a player they find fits perfectly with their representation and expectations.

3. Los Angeles Lakers: Youthful Energy to Complement Ageing Core

With several experienced players ruling the roster, the Los Angeles Lakers are looking to add younger and more energetic scorers in their team, who can play around star players like LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

It is interesting to note in this regard that Alijah Martin has an ability to adapt. On the other hand, his consistent double-digit scoring across all four NCAA seasons so far is worthy to prove that he is a reliable team player and a complementary scorer.

Lakers absolutely hate to lose, and Martin’s consistent performances, particularly the 18 vs. UConn and 17 vs. Auburn, reflect his potential for big moments in a playoff environment, making him an ideal candidate. However, we will have to wait and watch how this pairing works out.

4. Golden State Warriors: A Developmental Wing in the Warriors’ System

The Golden State Warriors have a strong reputation for developing high IQ players who can shoot and defend. Luckily for them, Alijah Martin has a high basketball IQ. He is known for making smart, spontaneous, and swift on-court decisions.

With 2.2 AST and 1.5 STL, Martin is a versatile scorer for the Gators who has previously caught the rims and even hit shots from beyond the arc. Not only this, having exceptionally alert defences, he easily can guard multiple positions- in the paint as well as in the perimeter.

With these set of qualities that Martin carries, the Warriors are more than likely to use him like they have with players Moses Moody or Donte DiVincenzo in the recent seasons. They could use him in a more hybrid role. 

5. Detroit Pistons: Rebuilding Team with Room for Scoring Wings

Last but not least, we have the Detroit Pistons. The team is in desperate need of productive scorers on the wing to complement its key players, Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey. And yes, you’ve guessed it right. Who better than Alijah Martin for the role? 

Martin has continually proven his scoring prowess throughout his high school and college level. He even made a career high of 14.6 PPG in 2024–25 at the collegiate level. Not to forget his rebounding prowess that would provide huge and instantaneous contributions to the Pistons. 

Meanwhile, the young Pistons would easily welcome Martin onboard, without much adjustment issues from either side. As a relatively mature and experienced player, Martin could also get an opportunity to earn early rotational minutes as he would grow with the young core of Detroit.