No. 5 Florida rebounded emphatically from its recent home loss by defeating Texas 84-60 on Saturday at the O’Connell Center. The win not only marked the Gators’ return to form but also started a new home-winning streak following the end of their previous 16-game run earlier this week.
Four days after falling to Missouri, the Gators (16-2, 3-2 SEC) responded with a performance fueled by improved energy and focus. Alijah Martin led the way with 22 points, while Walter Clayton Jr. added 19 to help Florida dominate a Texas team (12-6, 1-4 SEC) that has faced one of the toughest opening schedules in the conference.
Texas, making its first visit to the O’Connell Center since 1996, was led by Tre Johnson, the SEC’s leading scorer, who finished with 16 points on 6-of-15 shooting. However, the Longhorns struggled to keep pace, particularly during a decisive 15-0 first-half run by Florida that created a double-digit lead the visitors were unable to overcome.
The Gators overcame another sluggish start, missing nine of their first ten shots, but quickly turned things around. Martin and Clayton sparked Florida’s offense, which made eight 3-pointers and controlled the boards with a +8 rebounding margin.
Forward Alex Condon also played a key role, tallying 11 points and 12 rebounds for his third double-double in four games. Florida’s ability to dominate the glass and create second-chance opportunities proved pivotal in maintaining their control throughout the game.
The Longhorns have faced a grueling start to SEC play, with losses to three top-five teams (Auburn, Tennessee, and Florida). Despite their early struggles, Texas showed flashes of promise, particularly from Johnson, but couldn’t keep up with Florida’s depth and firepower.
After a disappointing loss to Missouri earlier this week, the Gators responded with grit. Martin and Clayton were outstanding offensively, and the team’s defense and rebounding helped them regain momentum. Florida’s resilience will be key as they look to remain in contention in a competitive SEC.
Florida’s 15-0 first-half run was the turning point. The Gators turned a slow start into a dominant stretch, building a double-digit lead that Texas never seriously threatened.
Condon’s 11 points and 12 rebounds highlighted Florida’s dominance inside. The Gators’ rebounding advantage allowed them to control the tempo and limit Texas’ second-chance opportunities.
Texas will look to bounce back when they host Missouri on Tuesday night. Florida, meanwhile, travels to South Carolina on Wednesday, aiming to extend their new winning streak.