In an electrifying showdown at the Chase Center in San Francisco, the Florida Gators achieved one of the most remarkable comebacks in NCAA Tournament history, thanks in large part to their star point guard, Walter Clayton Jr.. Over the past few days, Clayton has been frequently compared to the legendary Steph Curry, a narrative that has gained momentum throughout the 2024-25 college basketball season. As Clayton led his team to an improbable victory, he showcased skills that drew parallels to Curry's renowned shooting prowess.
During the West Region championship, Clayton delivered a standout performance, scoring a game-high 30 points and hitting crucial shots in the final minutes to propel the Gators to an 84-79 victory over the Texas Tech Red Raiders. His late-game heroics included scoring 13 points in the final five minutes, which helped erase a daunting nine-point deficit with just under three minutes remaining. This remarkable comeback not only secured the Gators a spot in the Final Four but also marked their first appearance in the NCAA's grand stage in 11 years.
Reflecting on the comparisons to Curry, Clayton expressed humility, stating, "That's arguably the greatest point guard in the history of basketball, so I've got a ways to go. I wouldn't quite compare myself yet, but I'm just thankful for the recognition." His performance at Curry's home court further added to the excitement of the moment, as fans witnessed a new star rising in college basketball.
Coach Todd Golden, at just 39 years old, has transformed the Gators from NIT contenders to NCAA Final Four participants in a mere three years. After the game, he acknowledged the hard work and dedication of his players, emphasizing the importance of teamwork. "It's incredible, absolutely incredible," Golden said. "It's a direct result of the work our players have done all year and the work my staff has done."
While Clayton's performance was pivotal, he wasn't alone in his efforts. Backup forward Thomas Haugh played a crucial role, contributing a double-double with 20 points and 11 rebounds, including two critical three-pointers that fueled the comeback. Haugh's emotional reaction post-game highlighted the excitement and disbelief of the moment, as he exclaimed, "What just happened, it's wild. I don't even know what to say?"
The game was not without its challenges. The ninth-ranked Texas Tech Red Raiders initially dominated, thanks to strong performances from forwards Darrion Williams and JT Toppin. At one point, Texas Tech held a commanding lead of 75-66 with just over three minutes left on the clock, putting the Gators' chances of victory at a mere 4.4% according to the ESPN Win Probability meter. However, the Gators remained resilient and focused, determined to make every winning play down the stretch.
In a series of clutch plays, the Gators began to chip away at the deficit. Haugh hit a much-needed three-pointer, followed by Clayton's go-ahead three that sparked wild celebrations among Gators fans. With under a minute left, Clayton's two free throws sealed the game, solidifying Florida's victory and sending them to the Final Four in San Antonio, Texas.
After the game, Walter Clayton Jr. was named the West Region's Most Valuable Player, a testament to his exceptional skills in high-pressure situations. Coach Golden praised Clayton's composure, stating, "There's not another player in America you would rather have right now than Walter Clayton with the ball in his hands in a big-time moment." Clayton's performance demonstrated not only his ability to make critical shots but also his leadership and resilience, qualities that will be vital as the Gators prepare for their next challenge in the NCAA Tournament.
As the Florida Gators look ahead to the Final Four, they carry with them the momentum of a thrilling victory and the unwavering belief in their collective strength. With players like Walter Clayton Jr. leading the charge, the Gators are ready to make their mark on college basketball history.
