In a thrilling conclusion to the 2024–25 NCAA men’s basketball season, the Florida Gators staged a remarkable comeback to defeat the Houston Cougars 65–63, clinching their third national championship and first since 2007.
### A Historic Victory
The championship game, held at the Alamodome in San Antonio, saw Florida overcome a 12-point deficit early in the second half. This comeback was the third-largest in NCAA championship game history. The Gators’ resilience was on full display as they battled back against a formidable Houston defense.
Senior guard Walter Clayton Jr., who was scoreless in the first half, emerged as a pivotal figure in the second half, scoring 11 points and making a crucial defensive play in the final seconds to secure the victory. Will Richard led the Gators with 18 points, while Alijah Martin’s clutch free throws with 46.5 seconds remaining gave Florida its first lead since early in the game.
### Coaching Milestone
At 39 years old, Florida head coach Todd Golden became the youngest men’s basketball coach to win an NCAA title since Jim Valvano led NC State to a championship in 1983. Golden’s leadership was instrumental in guiding the Gators through a tournament run that included overcoming deficits in multiple games.
### Houston’s Heartbreak
The Cougars, seeking their first national title, were in control for much of the game but faltered in the closing minutes. Houston had a 33–0 record when holding opponents to 70 points or fewer before this loss. The defeat marked another disappointment for head coach Kelvin Sampson, who has led Houston to multiple Final Four appearances in recent years.
### A Season to Remember
Florida’s championship run capped a 36–4 season and earned them the No. 1 spot in the final Associated Press Top 25 men’s college basketball poll. The Southeastern Conference (SEC) also made history with a record 14 teams participating in the NCAA Tournament.
As the Gators celebrate their hard-fought victory, the college basketball world reflects on a season filled with memorable moments and the resurgence of a storied program.
