Florida Gators Secure 2025 NCAA Championship

​The Florida Gators clinched their third NCAA men's basketball championship on April 7, 2025, edging out the Houston Cougars 65-63 in a thrilling final. This victory marked Florida's first national title since 2007 and their first appearance in the championship game since then. The game was a tale of two halves. The Gators overcame a 12-point deficit with 16:24 remaining, showcasing resilience and determination. Senior guard Will Richard led Florida with 18 points, while Australian forward Alex Condon's timely loose ball recovery in the final moments secured the win. Florida's journey to the championship was paved with significant achievements. They secured the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Tournament title by defeating Tennessee 86-77, marking their first SEC championship since 2014. Their impressive performance throughout the season earned them a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament's West Region.  In the championship game, Houston's guard L.J. Cryer led his team with 19 points, but crucial turnovers in the final moments shifted the game's momentum in favor of Florida. Gators' guard Walter Clayton Jr., despite a quiet first half, scored all 11 of his points after halftime and was named the tournament's Most Outstanding Player. Florida's triumph not only adds a third championship to their storied history but also reaffirms their status as a powerhouse in college basketball.