Florida Gators are set to face off against the Connecticut Huskies in an exciting second-round matchup of the NCAA Tournament this Sunday. This highly anticipated game will showcase the skill and determination of both teams as they vie for a spot in the coveted Sweet 16. Below is a comprehensive overview of the details surrounding this thrilling encounter.
What: NCAA Tournament / 2nd round
When: Sunday, 12:10 PM (ET)
Where: Lenovo Center / Raleigh, N.C.
Records: Florida (31-4) / Connecticut (24-10)
TV: CBS (Commentators: Ian Eagle, Bill Raftery, Grant Hill, and Tracy Wolfson)
Radio: Gator Sports Network from LEARFIELD (Stations list with Sean Kelley, Lee Humphrey, and Steve Egan)
Florida Gators:
- Alex Condon, F, 6-11 / 230, Sophomore: 11.3 pts / 7.8 reb
- Rueben Chinyelu, C, 6-10 / 255, Sophomore: 6.1 pts / 6.5 reb
- Will Richard, G, 6-4 / 206, Senior: 13.4 pts / 4.5 reb
- Alijah Martin, G, 6-2 / 195, Graduate: 14.5 pts / 4.5 reb
- Walter Clayton Jr., G, 6-2 / 195, Senior: 17.7 pts / 3.8 reb / 4.3 ast
Connecticut Huskies:
- Alex Karaban, F, 6-8 / 225, Junior: 14.3 pts / 5.3 reb / 2.8 ast
- Samson Johnson, C, 6-10 / 225, Senior: 7.4 pts / 3.3 reb
- Liam McNeeley, F, 6-7 / 210, Freshman: 14.2 pts / 6.1 reb
- Solo Ball, G, 6-3 / 190, Sophomore: 14.6 pts / 3.6 reb
- Hassan Diarra, G, 6-2 / 195, Senior: 7.8 pts / 3.6 reb / 5.7 ast
This matchup features the Florida Gators, the fourth-ranked team and No. 1 seed in the NCAA West Region, facing the eighth-seeded Connecticut Huskies. Florida advanced by defeating Norfolk State 95-69 in their first-round game, while UConn secured a victory against Oklahoma, winning 67-59. The winner of this contest will move on to the Sweet 16, scheduled for Thursday in San Francisco.
Historically, UConn leads the series against Florida 5-1, with five consecutive wins dating back to the 2013-14 season. Their last meeting was on December 7, 2022, when UConn showcased a dominant performance, defeating Florida 75-54. In that game, the Huskies shot an impressive 52% from the field and limited Florida to just 37% shooting.
The Florida Gators are known for their explosive offensive capabilities, averaging 85.7 points per game, and a field goal percentage of .473. However, they exhibited defensive lapses in their last game against Norfolk State, allowing 48 points in the paint. Coach Todd Golden will emphasize the need for consistent defensive performance to compete effectively against UConn.
In contrast, the Connecticut Huskies have shown a strong defensive presence, ranking 11th in the nation for defense inside the arc. UConn has a solid offensive strategy, primarily focusing on efficient scoring, with a notable 57.3% success rate in 2-point shots. Fans can expect a well-rounded and disciplined performance from the Huskies.
For Florida, Walter Clayton Jr. is a standout player, averaging 21.3 points in the postseason and maintaining a remarkable streak of consecutive games with at least one three-pointer. His ability to score from beyond the arc will be crucial against UConn's defense. Additionally, Alijah Martin and Will Richard have been consistent contributors, combining for significant point totals in their recent games.
On the UConn side, Solo Ball has emerged as the leading scorer and a reliable three-point shooter, while Alex Karaban and Liam McNeeley add depth and versatility to the lineup. Their performances will be vital in determining the outcome of this matchup.
This second-round game between the Florida Gators and Connecticut Huskies promises to be a thrilling encounter, with high stakes and intense competition. As both teams aim for a spot in the Sweet 16, fans can expect a fierce battle on the court. Stay tuned for what is sure to be one of the highlights of the NCAA Tournament.
