Thomas Haugh wasted little time reminding the college basketball world why he’s considered one of the nation’s top players entering the 2026-27 season.

The Florida forward delivered an impressive all-around performance in Monday’s season-opening victory over Miami, earning recognition from CBS Sports as one of college basketball’s biggest winners from opening night.

In their opening-night winners and losers breakdown, CBS Sports writers Isaac Trotter and Cameron Salerno highlighted several notable performances across the country. Salerno singled out Haugh for demonstrating why he belongs in the national player of the year conversation.

Haugh finished with 19 points, 10 rebounds and four assists against the Hurricanes, adding one block and one steal. He also connected on four 3-pointers, matching a career high previously achieved against Texas Tech in the 2025 Elite Eight.

The outside shooting was particularly encouraging after Haugh connected on 32.6% of his 3-point attempts last season, averaging 5.9 attempts per game. His ability to stretch the floor while contributing as a rebounder, passer and defender makes him one of Florida’s most versatile offensive weapons.

Salerno noted that Michigan State guard Jeremy Fears Jr. was CBS Sports’ preseason national player of the year selection, but argued that Haugh has a legitimate opportunity to challenge him for the honor.

Florida entered the season with championship expectations after returning much of its core from last year’s SEC championship team. Haugh’s opening-night performance offered another reason to believe the Gators have the talent to contend nationally.

If Haugh can maintain that level of production while improving his perimeter efficiency, his national player-of-the-year candidacy could become one of Florida’s defining storylines this season.