New Reasons
Walter Clayton is the best college player when he's on. He can make a three from anywhere. Drive to the paint. Create contact—Swish free throws. And most importantly, he's got that dawg in him.
Florida's size in the front court has continued to prove its dominance in the paint, and it can rebound against other prominent big men.Â
Despite the close win to UConn, two-seed St. John's has been eliminated from the West bracket, the opponent most likely to take Florida out. The next matchup is Maryland, which has no bench compared to the Gator's deep roster. And when the Gators win that one, they'll play either Arkansas, who they already beat, or Texas Tech, who are prone to foul trouble in the paint, which Thomas Hauk and Alex Condon will take advantage of happily.
This year's the last chance the elite guards get to win a championship. The continued senior/grad trio of Walter Clatyon Jr., Will Richard, and Alijah Martin will continue to guide the way as they have all year with their experience. Alijah Martin's further experience in his Final Four runs with FAU will also show up big.Â
There's a different type of energy with this team. From the grittiness to the depth, Coach Todd Golden got hyped with his whole team present during the post-game interview. This team is confident and ready to take the chip home here and now.
Original Reasons
Rebounds come easy for the Gators. The tall trio of Thomas Haugh, Alex Condon, and Reuben Chinyelu rack in at least 6 rebounds per game. They rank third in the country with 42.1 rebounds per game. The entire roster crashes the boards like no one's business.
The SEC had the historically best season, entering 14 teams into March Madness. The Gators won the conference tournament and beat every team they played by at least 9 points. You can't tell me that's not national champion material.
The Florida Gators can do what the Phoenix Suns wish they could. Have a dominant trio of players be able to carry them to a championship. But wait, Florida's role players are actually good.Â
Florida has the country's top 10 offensive and defensive efficiency; it is a well-rounded team that is not just carried by a fast-paced offense like last year. The backcourt will steal the ball and make quick threes, and the frontcourt will steal offensive rebounds and block you in the paint.
The Gator's margin of victory this year was 16.2, while at home, it was 23.5. The Gators are also defeating the best teams in the country by a significant amount. They beat Auburn on the road by 9. Alabama by 22. Tennessee by 30. You get the idea.
Tyler Brodie