Florida Gators Make a Splash: Dominating Win Highlights Their Season!

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Just days ago, the Texas A&M team, known for tough defense, suffered a big defeat in Gainesville. This time, the Florida Gators faced Alabama, the fastest and highest-scoring team in college basketball. They came away with an impressive 99-94 win, solidifying their status as serious championship contenders.

Florida’s coach, Todd Golden, confidently stated, “I think we’re one of the best teams in America. To be that, you have to go on the road and beat good teams.”

Sophomore forward Alex Condon shined, netting a career-high 27 points along with 10 rebounds for his sixth double-double this season. Senior guard Walter Clayton Jr. added 22 points, five rebounds, and eight assists while leading a Florida offense that shot nearly 49%. Coming off the bench, Thomas Haugh contributed 12 points, all in the second half. Fifth-year guard Alijah Martin chipped in with 10 points and five boards, marking Florida’s first road win against Alabama since 2019.

The Gators, now boasting a record of 26-4, improved their chances for the NCAA Tournament. They excelled on the boards, out-rebounding Alabama 50-35 and scoring 19 second-chance points. Center Rueben Chinyelu led in rebounds with 11, four of which were offensive. Despite not making a basket in the final minutes, Florida capitalized on free throws, sinking 21 of 29 attempts (72.4%) after struggling from the line in a previous game.

This win is a significant milestone, marking the second time in history that Florida defeated two top-10 teams on the road in the same season. It also boosts their position for a high seed in the upcoming NCAA Tournament.

Clayton remarked, “We’ve been winning games and showing who we are. If we make it in, great; if not, we still approach the tournament with the same mindset.”

Condon, in his first start since recovering from an ankle injury, played confidently, hitting nine of 16 shots. He spent hours practicing free throws to prepare. “I got a hundred up two days in a row,” he said about his rigorous training.

The Gators started strong, leading at halftime 41-40, with Condon contributing significantly with both points and rebounds. The game remained competitive, but a surge from Florida in the second half helped them pull ahead. Though Alabama threatened with a rally, Florida maintained their lead through key free throws in the closing moments.

This victory highlights Florida’s versatility, as they manage to adjust and succeed against vastly different playing styles. Coach Golden praised his team’s ability to implement various game strategies and execute under pressure.

In the end, the Gators demonstrated that they are a force to be reckoned with as they approach the final stretch of the season and eye the NCAA Tournament.



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