Kugel grew up in Orlando, Florida and initially attended Central Florida Christian Academy. He transferred to Dr. Phillips High School after his sophomore year.[1] Kugel averaged 16.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game as a senior.[2]
Recruiting
Kugel was rated as a four-star recruit. He initially committed and signed a National Letter of Intent (NLI) to play for Mississippi State.[3] Kugel was later released from his NLI upon his request after Mississippi State fired head coach Ben Howland.[4] He ultimately committed to play for Florida.[5]
Kugel became a starter for the Florida Gators midway through his freshman season.[6] He finished the season averaging 9.9 points and 2.8 rebounds per game and was named the Southeastern Conference (SEC) All-Freshman team.[7] During conference play, he averaged 12.6 points, the most by a Florida freshman since Bradley Beal's 14.4 per game in the 2011–12 season.[7] He considered entering the 2023 NBA draft, but ultimately decided to Florida for his sophomore season.[8] Before the start of the 2023–2024 season, he was named to coaches preseason All-SEC first team.[9] Kugel announced his intention to transfer out of Florida in March 2024.[10]
Kansas
Kugel announced his commitment to Kansas on March 31, 2024.[11] He announced on May 8, 2024 that he would not play for Kansas after all.[12]
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