In 2025, the Florida Gators men’s basketball team took the NCAA Tournament stage with high hopes, emerging as the No. 1 seed in the West Region after a stellar season capped by a triumph at the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Championship. The Gators, boasting a 30-4 record, prepared to face the No. 16 seed Norfolk State Spartans in Raleigh, North Carolina, on March 21, at 6:50 p.m. ET.
Florida's journey to the top was an impressive one. Under the guidance of head coach Todd Golden, the Gators had a phenomenal turnaround this season, clinching their first SEC Tournament title since 2014 by defeating No. 8 Tennessee 86-77. Golden's mantra has been clear from the very beginning, echoing his belief: “We have everything we need here to compete at the championship level.” Indeed, that vision became tangible for Golden and his team as they learned they earned the coveted No. 1 seed shortly after their victory. This marked a historic moment for UF, who had not enjoyed such ranking prestige since 2014.
Golden's emphasis on veteran leadership proved pivotal. At the SEC media day on October 15, he highlighted the roles of senior guards Walter Clayton Jr., Alijah Martin, and Will Richard as players who would spearhead Florida’s campaign. Their impact was significant; Richard has averaged 13.6 points, while Clayton Jr., following a strong tournament performance, finished the regular season scoring an impressive 17.5 points per game.
Turning over a new leaf required a mix of seasoned talent and youthful exuberance, blended with a strategic approach to analytics. In assessing the Gators' game plan, Golden has said, “The best coaches are able to use analytics without making it all about the numbers.” Such a philosophy paid off, placing Florida among the top ten in both offensive and defensive efficiency—a crucial metric in NCAA Tournament success. Their efforts paid dividends during the SEC Tournament where they averaged 95 points a game, showcasing their offensive prowess.
However, it wasn’t merely offensive efficiency that propelled Florida forward. The team recognized the pressing need for a more balanced defense after a painful first-round exit in the previous NCAA Tournament, where a 102-100 defeat to Colorado left a bitter taste. Responding resolutely, the Gators climbed 84 spots in defensive efficiency, now standing at No. 10 nationally according to KenPom. Golden remarked, “If we don't improve defensively, we have the opportunity to stay in the same spot we did last year.”
As they get ready to face Norfolk State, the Gators understand that this first game is crucial for building momentum in the tournament. Norfolk State (24-10) snatched a first-round victory in the 2012 NCAA Tournament as a 15 seed, showcasing their capability for upsets. “We’re a hungry group,” said Will Richard, reflecting team aspirations. Both Florida and Norfolk State are no strangers to the March Madness stage, with Florida looking to capitalize on their recent successes and Norfolk aiming to recreate past upsets.
The matchup between the two teams promises to be engaging. Florida scores an average of 85.4 points per game, considerably more than the 69 points Norfolk State allows. Conversely, Norfolk State has maintained 77.3 points per game. Their contrasting styles elevate the stakes, setting up an exciting contest.
Golden has urged the Gators to keep an underdog mentality despite their accolades. “We can’t let it change who we’ve been over the course of the season,” he emphasized, ensuring that his team remains focused as they head into their tournament matchup.
Should Florida triumph over Norfolk State, the Gators will then face the winner of the 8-9 matchup between UConn and Oklahoma for a chance at the Sweet 16—a feat they haven’t reached since 2017. The team’s recent history has left them wanting more, especially following their near escape last year.
On March 19, 2025, just days before the tournament, Golden expressed hope that senior forward Sam Alexis would return from injury, further bolstering the team’s depth as they progress through the tournament. “There’s always going to be a circumstance where you probably need another guy to come in and impact the game,” he noted, displaying confidence in his team as they prepare for their upcoming challenges.
The stage is set for Florida basketball to mark its return to prominence, looking to avenge last season's disappointment and aiming for their first national title since 2007. With a solid mix of experience and skill, the Gators are ready to make their mark in the NCAA Tournament, and all eyes will be on them as they tip off against Norfolk State.
