In an electrifying SEC showdown, Will Richard’s driving layup with 4.8 seconds left capped a remarkable comeback as No. 5 Florida overcame a 14-point second-half deficit to edge South Carolina 70-69 on Wednesday night. The victory improved Florida’s record to 17-2 overall and 4-2 in the Southeastern Conference, while South Carolina fell to 10-9 overall and 0-6 in SEC play, marking its worst conference start since the 2013-14 season.
Richard, who led the Gators with 22 points, delivered in the clutch. With Florida trailing by one point in the waning moments, Richard drove left from the top of the key and banked in the decisive layup. South Carolina’s Jacobi Wright had a chance to answer with a desperation 3-pointer at the buzzer, but it was off the mark, sealing the Gators’ hard-fought victory.
The Gamecocks appeared in control, holding a commanding 52-38 lead with 12:46 remaining. However, Florida turned the tide with a relentless defensive effort and fast-break dominance. Trailing by 13 with less than nine minutes to play, the Gators forced three consecutive turnovers in the backcourt, converting them into quick baskets that narrowed the gap to 58-51. Florida’s defensive pressure rattled South Carolina, who struggled to regain their composure down the stretch.
Walter Clayton Jr. was instrumental in the comeback, scoring 16 points and hitting a key 3-pointer to set a program record with a triple in 42 consecutive games. Florida also capitalized on transition opportunities, outscoring South Carolina 22-0 in fast-break points.
South Carolina’s winless start in SEC play looms large, with No. 14 Mississippi State next on the schedule. Despite a valiant effort and contributions from Meechie Johnson and Wright, who combined for 32 points, the Gamecocks faltered late, unable to withstand Florida’s furious rally.
The Gators’ SEC journey has been uneven, featuring a signature win over then-No. 1 Tennessee but also a disappointing home loss to Missouri. Wednesday’s comeback showcased their resilience and ability to execute under pressure.
The Gamecocks are teetering on the brink of their first 0-7 SEC start in a decade. Saturday’s matchup against Mississippi State presents another tough challenge for a team searching for stability.
Florida’s defense sparked the turnaround with three consecutive steals in the backcourt during a critical stretch, flipping the momentum and cutting into South Carolina’s lead. That sequence ignited a 22-11 run over the final nine minutes, culminating in Richard’s game-winning layup.
The Gators outscored the Gamecocks 22-0 on fast-break points, a decisive factor in their comeback. Florida’s ability to push the pace and convert turnovers into points was critical in overcoming South Carolina’s lead.
Both teams return to action on Saturday. Florida heads back to Gainesville to host Georgia, while South Carolina will look to avoid an 0-7 start in SEC play when they face No. 14 Mississippi State at home.
This thrilling victory not only bolsters Florida’s standing in the SEC but also serves as a testament to the Gators’ grit and determination as they continue their quest for conference dominance.