9. Florida (1-1)
The Gators achieved the ultimate goal by cutting down the nets as national champions last season. Todd Golden’s squad was extremely successful down the stretch of a historic season, but the past is in the past and this team is hoping to make their mark as well. Florida returned three significant forwards from that success and hit big in the transfer portal to fill out what could be one of the most talented lineups in the nation.
However, the Gators hit an early road bump to begin the season, falling 93-87 against Arizona in Las Vegas on opening night. Thomas Haugh led the charge with 27 points and Micah Handlogten had a double-double, though the new faces in the backcourt struggled and the team wasn’t great from outside the arc. Things understandably went better Thursday, with Florida winning 104-64 against North Florida. Alex Condon led all scorers with 25 points, Handlogten had another double-double, and the Gators got in the victory column.
There’s no reason to make sweeping statements after just one week of play, but the Gators weren’t great from outside the arc in either contest and haven’t seen the best yet from Boogie Fland or the rest of their guards. This team absolutely has great days ahead and is still certainly a national contender, with a chance to bounce back against rival Florida State in the coming days.