The Florida Gators needed another comeback to be crowned 2025 National Champions. They defeated fellow No. 1 seed Houston Cougars last night in San Antonio, Texas 65-63. The situation looked dire for the Gators. They found themselves down 12, 42-30, a few minutes into the second half. From that point forward, Florida outscored their opponent 35-21.
A comeback was nothing new for the Gators in the 2025 NCAA Tournament. The Gators are the only champion over the last 20 years to overcome 9+ point deficits in the Elite 8, Final Four, and National Championship Game. They came back to defeat Texas Tech in the Elite 8, Auburn in the Final Four, and finally, the Houston Cougars to become champions. How will Florida’s tournament run be remembered?
Florida Delivers In Clutch Moments
In the gauntlet known as the NCAA Tournament, close games are a given. It is how a team fares in close games that determines the champion. The Florida Gators passed that test with flying colors. They were one of the nation’s most complete teams and proved it during the tournament. The Gators finished the season fifth in points scored. They led the nation in that metric heading into the game against Houston. The Gators finished 16th in opposing field goal percentage.
After being stifled in the first half by Houston’s suffocating defense, the Gators did just enough down the stretch to emerge victorious. Walter Clayton Jr, named Most Outstanding Player, struggled in the title game. He finished with 11 points on 3-of-10 shooting. Guard Will Richard was great in the first half. His performance set the stage for another Florida comeback. Richard scored 14 of UF’s 28 points in the first half. Even though he had a quiet second half, his performance should not be forgotten anytime soon.
Final Thoughts
Head Coach Todd Golden guided the Gators to their first National Championship since 2007. At 39 years old he became the youngest coach to win a championship since Jim Valvano in 1983. Golden has the Florida program back atop the college basketball landscape. The future is bright for him and the program.
