Florida’s Grit and UConn’s Dynasty Define 2024–25 Men’s College Basketball Season

The 2024–25 men’s college basketball season was marked by dramatic comebacks, dominant performances, and the emergence of new powerhouses.  Florida’s thrilling national championship victory and UConn’s pursuit of a historic three-peat highlighted a year filled with compelling narratives and standout performances.


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Season Recap: UConn’s Pursuit and Florida’s Ascendancy

UConn entered the season aiming to become the first team since UCLA’s 1967–73 run to win three consecutive national titles.  Despite a challenging regular season that led to a No. 8 seed in the NCAA Tournament, the Huskies showcased resilience.  Their tournament journey included a narrow second-round loss to eventual champions Florida, ending their bid for a historic three-peat.

Florida’s season was characterized by steady growth and resilience.  Under the leadership of coach Todd Golden, the Gators secured their third national title with a dramatic 65–63 victory over Houston in the championship game.  Walter Clayton Jr.’s pivotal defensive play in the final seconds sealed the win, capping a remarkable tournament run that included victories over UConn, Texas Tech, and Auburn.

The Southeastern Conference (SEC) demonstrated its strength throughout the season.  Florida’s championship marked the SEC’s first men’s basketball title since Kentucky’s 2012 victory, highlighting the conference’s competitive resurgence.


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Final Four Breakdown: Clutch Performances and Defensive Mastery

Florida 79, Auburn 73

In the semifinal matchup, Florida overcame a formidable Auburn team, securing a 79–73 victory.  Walter Clayton Jr. led the Gators with 34 points, including 5-of-8 shooting from beyond the arc.  Alijah Martin contributed 17 points, while Thomas Haugh added 12 points and seven rebounds.  The Gators’ balanced offensive attack and defensive tenacity propelled them to their first championship game appearance since 2007.

Houston 70, Duke 67

Houston edged out Duke in a tightly contested semifinal, winning 70–67.  L.J. Cryer led the Cougars with 26 points, including six 3-pointers.  Joseph Tugler added four blocks, and J’Wan Roberts made two crucial free throws in the final seconds.  The Cougars’ disciplined defense and timely scoring proved decisive, earning them a spot in the national championship game.

Championship Game: Florida 65, Houston 63

The national championship game was a showcase of resilience and clutch performances.  Florida overcame a 12-point second-half deficit, with Walter Clayton Jr. scoring all 11 of his points after halftime.  He also contributed seven assists, five rebounds, one steal, and one block.  Will Richard led the Gators with 18 points, shooting 5-of-10 from the field, including 4-of-7 from three-point range, and added eight rebounds, two assists, two steals, and one block.  Alijah Martin added seven points, while Alex Condon contributed 12 points and seven rebounds.  L.J. Cryer led Houston with 19 points.  The Gators’ defensive prowess in the closing moments secured their third national championship.


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The 2024–25 season will be remembered for Florida’s remarkable championship run and UConn’s pursuit of a historic three-peat.  As teams regroup and prepare for the next season, the narratives of resilience, strategic prowess, and emerging talent continue to define the landscape of men’s college basketball.