NCAA Basketball: UConn, Iowa State, Auburn rise in latest top 25 power rankings
By Joey Loose
24. Florida (24-10)
Florida has had some nice moments this season, with Todd Golden seemingly getting things going again for the Gators. Still, losing the regular season finale against Vanderbilt was dreadful even for a team that’s a sure thing for the Big Dance. Fortunately, Florida has bounced back nicely during the SEC Tournament.
The Gators won their first game over Georgia, pulling out an 85-80 win on Thursday. Walter Clayton Jr. led the charge with 22 points while Tyrese Samuel added 17 points and 15 rebounds. Friday’s quarterfinal was far more impressive, as Florida won 102-88 in a thriller against Alabama, getting 23 from Clayton and a 19-point outing from Zyon Pullin. The Gators kept their hot streak going in the semifinals with a 95-90 win against Texas A&M, led by a 20-point performance off the bench from Denzel Aberdeen.
The Gators play in the SEC championship game against Auburn on Sunday, their last test before the NCAA Tournament. We’ve seen good from the Gators, especially on the offensive end. What can we expect to see down the stretch in the Big Dance? Can Florida’s defense do enough in potential big-time games in the coming weeks?