The 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball Final Four is heating up as the Florida Gators and Auburn Tigers, both No. 1 seeds, face off in a thrilling matchup at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas. Scheduled to tip off at 6:09 p.m. ET, this clash between two SEC powerhouses promises to be an electrifying encounter with a spot in the national championship game on the line.
Auburn, the top overall seed, comes into this game after a dominant run through the tournament. The Tigers captured the SEC regular-season championship but faced a setback in the SEC Tournament semifinals against Tennessee. However, they have bounced back impressively in the NCAA Tournament, defeating Alabama State, Creighton, Michigan, and Michigan State to secure their place in the Final Four for the first time in five years.
Florida, on the other hand, finished second in the SEC regular-season standings but clinched the SEC Tournament title for the first time since 2014. The Gators have shown resilience throughout the tournament, overcoming tough challenges against Norfolk State, UConn, Maryland, and Texas Tech to reach the Final Four for the first time in 11 years.
Both teams have a rich history in the tournament, with Florida winning national championships in 2006 and 2007, while Auburn is still seeking its first title. Their previous matchup earlier this season ended with Florida defeating Auburn 90-81, where Walter Clayton Jr. shone with 19 points and nine assists, while Auburn's Johni Broome recorded a double-double with 18 points and 11 rebounds.
As the game begins, all eyes will be on the key players. For Florida, Walter Clayton Jr. leads the team with 18.1 points and 4.2 assists per game. His scoring prowess will be crucial in this high-stakes game. Meanwhile, Auburn’s Johni Broome, the SEC Player of the Year, averages 18.7 points and 10.9 rebounds per game. He is playing with "no limitations" after recovering from an injury sustained in the Elite Eight.
Both teams are known for their offensive firepower. Florida averages 85.4 points per game, while Auburn closely follows with 83.2 points per game. Their defenses are also formidable, as Florida allows 69.7 points per game and Auburn permits 69.2 points per game. The matchup features two of the nation’s most efficient offenses, with Florida's 3-point shooting percentage at 35.74 and Auburn's at 36.09.
As the first half unfolds, both teams are trading baskets, showcasing their offensive capabilities. Florida opened the game strong, with Walter Clayton Jr. hitting a step-back three-pointer early on. Auburn, however, responded with a series of impressive plays, including a dunk by Dylan Cardwell that electrified the crowd.
By halftime, Auburn held a narrow lead, 46-38, largely due to their dominance in the paint, outscoring Florida 26-14 in that area. Johni Broome led the charge for the Tigers, scoring 12 points in the first half. Clayton, on the other hand, had a game-high 14 points for the Gators, keeping them competitive.
As the second half begins, Florida quickly ties the game at 49-49, igniting their fans. The momentum shifts back and forth as both teams refuse to back down. The intensity ramps up with each possession, and the game features 11 lead changes and nine ties as the clock winds down.
With just under eight minutes remaining, Florida leads 60-58, showcasing their ability to execute under pressure. Walter Clayton Jr. continues to shine, scoring crucial baskets, including a fadeaway three-pointer that puts Florida ahead. He has now amassed 22 points, proving to be a vital player for the Gators.
Auburn's Chad Baker-Mazara responds with a timely three-pointer, highlighting the back-and-forth nature of the game. As the clock ticks down, both teams are locked in a fierce battle, with each possession carrying immense weight.
Florida's ability to rally from behind has been a hallmark of their tournament run, and they demonstrate that resilience once again. The Gators are known for their explosive offensive runs, and they are looking to capitalize on any opportunities to extend their lead.
As the final minutes approach, the atmosphere is electric. Florida's defense tightens, and they force several turnovers from Auburn, creating scoring opportunities. With just two minutes left, Clayton hits a crucial shot to put Florida up 71-68, sending their fans into a frenzy.
Auburn, however, is not ready to concede. They respond with a strong offensive push, looking to tie the game once again. Johni Broome continues to be a force inside, while the Tigers' perimeter shooting becomes increasingly important as they attempt to close the gap.
As the clock winds down, both teams are giving it their all. The tension is palpable as each possession becomes critical. Fans are on the edge of their seats, witnessing a classic NCAA tournament showdown.
The outcome remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: both Florida and Auburn have left everything on the court in pursuit of a national championship. The winner of this thrilling contest will advance to face the victor of the second Final Four matchup between Duke and Houston, set to take place later tonight.
With the stakes higher than ever, the stage is set for an unforgettable conclusion to this epic battle in San Antonio. Who will emerge victorious and earn the right to compete for the national title? Only time will tell as the final seconds tick away.
