Florida Gators vs Uconn Huskies Picks and Predictions March 23rd 2025

Defending Champion UConn Set for High-Stakes Showdown vs. Florida

UConn, the two-time defending NCAA champion, aims to continue its postseason streak Sunday against top-seeded Florida in a high-intensity West Region second-round clash.

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Contrasting Styles Collide

Sunday’s second-round matchup in Raleigh pits two recent college basketball juggernauts with contrasting approaches. No. 1 seed Florida (31-4) boasts one of the tournament’s most potent offensive attacks, while eighth-seeded UConn (24-10) rides a defense-first mentality and championship pedigree.

Florida opened its NCAA Tournament run with a 95-69 dismantling of Norfolk State, showcasing the kind of scoring depth that has carried the Gators all season. With four players averaging double figures and six posting at least eight points per game, the Gators spread the floor and punish teams in transition.

UConn, meanwhile, leaned on gritty execution and lockdown defense to outlast Oklahoma 67-59 in its opener. Head coach Dan Hurley acknowledged the challenge Florida presents, especially given the tempo they prefer.

“We need to drag them into a half-court game,” Hurley said. “When they get rolling, it’s wave after wave.”

UConn Embracing Underdog Mentality

Despite UConn’s 13-game NCAA Tournament win streak and back-to-back national titles, Hurley insists the Huskies are flying under the radar.

“I don’t think many people will give us a shot in the second one,” he said. “That makes us dangerous.”

UConn’s defensive identity, led by the likes of Solo Ball and a physical frontcourt, could be the antidote to Florida’s offensive pace. The Huskies have won six of their last seven games and continue to lean into their postseason experience and composure.

Gators Aware of the Challenge

Florida coach Todd Golden has led his team to 12 wins in its last 13 games, including an ACC tournament runner-up finish. While the Gators rely on guard Walter Clayton Jr. (17.7 ppg) to lead the charge, their real strength lies in balance. Key contributors such as Alijah Martin, Will Richard, and Tyrese Samuel give Florida options from every position.

Golden, however, is not taking the Huskies lightly.

“This team has been great for us all year,” Golden said. “But we know what we’re up against.”

What to Watch For

Florida will look to push tempo and create early offense. UConn’s goal will be to slow the game down, control possessions, and test the Gators’ patience. The winner advances to the Sweet 16 — and with both programs having claimed national titles in the past decade, expect a heavyweight bout.

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