March Madness: Florida Gators Secure Final Four Spot with Thrilling Comeback
As the excitement of March Madness continues to captivate basketball fans across the nation, the field of 68 teams is rapidly narrowing down to the coveted Final Four. The Florida Gators have emerged as the first team to secure their place in the 2025 NCAA tournament’s Final Four, following a dramatic come-from-behind victory over Texas Tech on Saturday in San Francisco. Meanwhile, anticipation builds for the showdown between the Duke Blue Devils and the Alabama Crimson Tide, both of whom dazzled in the Sweet 16 by scoring over 100 points each. This thrilling matchup is set to close out the night in Newark, New Jersey.
Our dedicated team of reporters and editors are stationed across the country, providing live updates and insights as the action unfolds in these pivotal games. Stay tuned as we bring you the latest developments from the Elite Eight.
Elite Eight Live Tracker
(3) Texas Tech vs.
(1) Florida
Final: Florida defeated Texas Tech 84-79
How Florida won: In a game that kept fans on the edge of their seats, the Florida Gators found themselves on the brink of elimination. However, Walter Clayton Jr. delivered a stellar performance, scoring 13 of his game-high 30 points in the final 5:24. This remarkable effort erased a 10-point deficit against Texas Tech and propelled the Gators to their first Final Four appearance since 2014. Throughout the second half, Florida struggled to string together consecutive baskets, but Thomas Haugh broke the drought with back-to-back 3-pointers, narrowing the gap to 75-72 with just 2:27 remaining. Clayton Jr. then took charge, sinking consecutive shots from beyond the arc to give Florida its first lead since early in the half. He sealed the victory with a pair of clutch free throws in the closing moments. — Kyle Bonagura
Florida’s key in the Final Four: Walter Clayton Jr.’s brilliance. The Final Four is a stage where stars shine the brightest. Teams with standout players who can rise to the occasion are the ones that ultimately cut down the nets and claim the national championship. This is why names like Anthony Davis, Carmelo Anthony, Kemba Walker, Mateen Cleaves, and Jay Williams are etched in NCAA tournament history. Star power is paramount. Alongside Cooper Flagg, Florida boasts one of the tournament’s biggest stars in Clayton Jr. His determination and talent could be the decisive factors in the Gators’ quest for the title. — Myron Medcalf
- Florida Gators make their first Final Four appearance since 2014.
- Walter Clayton Jr. scores 30 points, including 13 in the final minutes.
- Thomas Haugh’s back-to-back 3-pointers spark Florida’s comeback.
- Florida’s star power could be key to winning the championship.
Originally Written by: ESPN staff
