Introduction: A Historic Win for Florida Basketball
The Florida Gators clinched their first Final Four spot since 2014 with an electrifying 84-79 comeback win over Texas Tech in the 2025 March Madness Elite Eight. Walter Clayton Jr. led the charge with 30 points, dominating the final minutes at Chase Center in San Francisco. This victory cements Florida’s legacy in college basketball as they advance toward championship glory.
Game Overview: Florida vs. Texas Tech
The Elite Eight matchup between No. 1 seed Florida and No. 3 seed Texas Tech was expected to be a battle, and it did not disappoint. Texas Tech controlled most of the game, leading by as many as nine points in the final three minutes. However, Florida staged a remarkable comeback, sealing the victory with clutch plays from Walter Clayton Jr. and key contributions from his teammates.
First Half: A Tight Battle
- The first half was a back-and-forth contest, with both teams trading leads.
- Florida’s early offense was powered by Clayton Jr. and forward Thomas Haugh, who combined for 22 first-half points.
- Texas Tech countered with strong inside play, capitalizing on second-chance opportunities.
- At halftime, Texas Tech led 40-38, setting up an intense second half.
Second Half: Florida’s Comeback and Clayton’s Heroics
- Texas Tech built a 75-66 lead with just over three minutes left in the game.
- Walter Clayton Jr. then took over, scoring 13 of his game-high 30 points in the final three minutes.
- He drained two crucial three-pointers, tying the game at 75-75 and later giving Florida a 78-77 lead with less than a minute remaining.
- Alijah Martin and Will Richard contributed key free throws to seal the victory.
Walter Clayton Jr.: The Star of the Game
Walter Clayton Jr. delivered one of the best performances of his collegiate career in this high-pressure matchup. His ability to take over the game in the clutch moments was the difference-maker.
Key Stats for Clayton Jr.:
- Points: 30 (13 in the final 3 minutes)
- Field Goals: 10-18
- Three-Pointers: 4-7
- Assists: 5
- Rebounds: 6
Clayton’s leadership and confidence in crunch time were reminiscent of legendary March Madness performances. His fearless shooting and ability to drive to the basket kept Florida in contention when the game seemed out of reach.
Other Key Players in Florida’s Victory
While Clayton Jr. stole the spotlight, several other Florida players played crucial roles in the win.
Thomas Haugh (Forward)
- 20 points, 11 rebounds
- Back-to-back three-pointers that sparked Florida’s late-game rally
- Defensive presence against Texas Tech’s big men
Alijah Martin (Guard)
- 12 points, 5 assists
- Clutch free throws in the final minute
- Strong defensive plays down the stretch
Will Richard (Guard)
- 10 points, 3 rebounds
- Provided crucial defensive stops
- Assisted Clayton Jr. in key moments
Texas Tech’s Effort: A Tough Loss for the Red Raiders
Texas Tech, led by Darrius Williams’ 23 points, played exceptionally well for most of the game. Their inside presence and three-point shooting kept them ahead until Florida’s late surge. Despite the loss, Texas Tech’s strong tournament run showcased their depth and competitiveness.
Key Stats for Texas Tech:
- Darrius Williams: 23 points, 7 rebounds
- Michael Carter: 17 points, 4 assists
- Team Three-Point Shooting: 42% (10-24)
The Red Raiders had an outstanding season, and though their journey ended in heartbreak, their resilience and talent will make them contenders again next season.
Coaching Strategies: Todd Golden’s Masterclass
Florida’s head coach, Todd Golden, deserves immense credit for the team’s performance. In just his third season, Golden has led the Gators back to the Final Four, proving his ability to build a championship-caliber team.
Key Coaching Decisions:
- Defensive Adjustments: Golden switched to a full-court press in the final minutes, disrupting Texas Tech’s rhythm.
- Trust in Clayton Jr.: He gave his star player the green light to take over in the clutch moments.
- Late-Game Substitutions: Bringing in defensive specialists helped Florida shut down Texas Tech’s final possessions.
Florida’s Road to the Final Four
The Gators’ journey to the Final Four has been filled with challenges and triumphs. Let’s take a look at their path:
- First Round: Defeated No. 16 Norfolk State (92-63)
- Second Round: Beat No. 8 Indiana (78-71)
- Sweet 16: Outlasted No. 4 Marquette (85-77)
- Elite Eight: Comeback win over No. 3 Texas Tech (84-79)
Each game showcased Florida’s ability to adapt and rise to the occasion, making them a serious contender for the national championship.
Looking Ahead: Florida in the Final Four
With this victory, Florida advances to the Final Four in San Antonio, where they will face the winner of the South Region, either Auburn or Michigan State. The Gators’ combination of experience, defense, and clutch shooting makes them a dangerous opponent.
Keys to Success in the Final Four:
- Clayton Jr. Needs Another Big Game: Florida will rely on his scoring and leadership.
- Defensive Discipline: The Gators must avoid early foul trouble and limit turnovers.
- Balanced Scoring: Players like Haugh, Martin, and Richard must contribute offensively.
Historical Context: Florida’s Final Four Legacy
Florida’s return to the Final Four is a reminder of their rich basketball history. The Gators previously won back-to-back national championships in 2006 and 2007 under Billy Donovan. Their last Final Four appearance came in 2014, making this run even more special for fans and alumni.
Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Florida Basketball
Florida’s 84-79 victory over Texas Tech was more than just a win—it was a statement. Led by Walter Clayton Jr.’s unforgettable performance, the Gators proved their resilience, talent, and championship potential. As they prepare for the Final Four, one thing is clear: Florida is back among college basketball’s elite.
Whether they go on to win the national championship or not, this season has already cemented itself as one of the most thrilling in Florida Gators history. March Madness always delivers unforgettable moments, and this Florida comeback will be remembered for years to come.
