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FLORIDA - The Florida Gators are back in the NCAA Tournament’s Sweet 16 for the first time in seven years after edging out the two-time defending national champion UConn Huskies, 77-75.
Walter Clayton Jr. led the way with 23 points, including two clutch three-pointers in the final five minutes that helped Florida take and hold the lead.
“We knew this game wasn't going to be easy,” Clayton said. “They've got a championship pedigree… but we kept our composure.”
Florida, the No. 1 seed in the West Region, overcame a shaky performance that included 12 turnovers and a 64% showing from the free-throw line.
Despite trailing for most of the second half, the Gators caught fire late, shooting 47.4% from three-point range compared to UConn’s 27.6%.
Alijah Martin added 18 points and Will Richard scored 15 in the win.
Florida outshot UConn 46% to 37.5% from the field, helping close the gap despite their mistakes.
Head coach praised his team’s resilience. “The time was now for us to take that next step. Florida basketball is back where it belongs,” he said.
The Gators will now face the winner of Maryland vs. Colorado State as they look to continue their tournament run.
Florida last reached the Sweet 16 in 2017, when they advanced to the Elite Eight before falling to South Carolina.
The win marks a return to form for a program eager to reestablish itself among college basketball’s elite.