Indianapolis witnessed a dramatic showdown on April 7, 2025, as the Florida Gators clinched their third NCAA men’s basketball championship by defeating the Houston Cougars 65-63. This victory came after they managed to overcome an early double-digit deficit and secured the lead in the game’s final moments.
Walter Clayton Jr., who was struggling throughout the game, turned things around in the second half, scoring all of his 11 points after halftime. His most notable moment came when he thwarted Houston’s Emanuel Sharp from taking a potential game-winning shot at the buzzer. As Sharp attempted to set up for a three-pointer, Clayton’s defense caused him to lose his rhythm, leading to a crucial turnover with time running out on the clock.
Will Richard played a pivotal role in keeping Florida competitive, contributing 18 points to the team’s total. This victory marked Florida’s third title, their first since back-to-back championships in 2006 and 2007. The loss was particularly hard for Houston and coach Kelvin Sampson, who were seeking their first-ever title.
The game took on a defensive tone, with both teams showcasing their skills, but it was the Gators’ defense that shone in the closing moments. After a pair of free throws by Alijah Martin put Florida ahead 64-63 — their first lead since the 8-6 mark — the Gators successfully forced a turnover off Sharp, leading to another scoring opportunity.
Coach Sampson’s strategy had kept Florida under 70 points— a significant achievement, as it was only the second time all season that happened. However, instead of becoming the oldest coach to win the title at 69, Sampson watched as Florida’s coach, who is just 39 years old, achieved a milestone of becoming the youngest champion since Jim Valvano in 1983.
Florida trailed by 12 points early in the second half, a tough situation made worse by a technical foul on the Gators’ bench due to frustration over a quick succession of calls. Houston’s pressure led to another technical foul on Rueben Chinyelu, but their efforts fell short. This tough loss brings back memories of Houston’s historic Phi Slama Jama teams in the 1980s, who also finished in second place.
After an intense Final Four that saw all games decided within six points, the showdown between Florida and Houston was another nail-biter, ending with the Gators on top, showcasing a truly thrilling NCAA Championship game.
