Florida staged a remarkable comeback against Houston to secure their third NCAA title

Florida rallied from a 12-point deficit in the second half to secure a thrilling 65-63 victory over Houston, capturing their third national championship in NCAA men’s basketball on Monday.

Senior Will Richard topped the scoring for the Gators with 18 points in Florida’s first appearance in the title game since their last victory in 2007, while Australian forward Alex Condon secured the game-clinching loose ball.

Houston seemed poised to secure their inaugural title as their formidable defense effectively contained Florida’s top player, Walter Clayton Jr., throughout the first half. However, they ultimately faltered against a revitalized Gators offense.

“We maintained our approach throughout the year,” stated head coach Todd Golden, 39, who is the youngest head coach to secure the NCAA title since 1983. “As we have throughout the year, we executed when it mattered most.”

Florida seemed out of sync at the beginning, plagued by a series of early turnovers, while sharpshooter Clayton failed to score in the first half.

The Houston fans in San Antonio’s Alamodome erupted as guard L.J. Cryer sank a deep three-pointer, igniting an 8-0 run for the Cougars in the final six minutes of the half, allowing them to head into the locker room with a three-point advantage.

Houston built a 12-point lead in the opening five minutes of the second half, thanks to two three-pointers from Cryer. However, the Florida offense responded swiftly, tying the game with under eight minutes remaining.

Guard Alijah Martin put the Gators ahead by sinking two free throws with 46 seconds remaining, just before Houston committed a turnover in the frantic closing moments of the game.

“It’s a feeling I can’t even put into words,” said the Gators’ Clayton, who concluded the night with 11 points, seven assists, and five rebounds.