Tuongthach Gatkek is the newest addition to the Florida men’s basketball team.
Gatkek, who goes by Tuon, announced his commitment to the Gators via Twitter Tuesday. The team soon followed suit and officially welcomed him to the team Friday.
During his high school years, Gatkek played in Amarillo, Texas, at Caprock High School. He didn’t receive much Division I interest out of high school and looked to build his game at the junior college level.
The Portland, Maine, native began making noise with Trinity Valley Community College, which is located in Texas. Gatkek averaged 9.7 points, 6.9 rebounds and 2.2 blocks per game during the 2020-21 season.
Gatkek earned an All-Region XIV Honorable Mention for his contributions to TVCC’s 23-3 record last season. His season high of 23 points came in a win over Tyler Junior College.
While it is still unclear what role Gatkek will have with the Gators after being added this close to the season, the step up in competition could prove beneficial for the lanky forward.
Contact Joseph Henry at jhenry@alligator.org. Follow him on Twitter @Josephhenry2424.
Joseph Henry is a fourth-year sports journalism major and is the Alligator's sports editor. He previously worked as senior news director, assistant sports editor, men's basketball beat reporter, volleyball beat reporter and golf beat reporter. He enjoys sitting down to watch a movie as often as possible, collecting vinyl and drinking Dr. Pepper.