Florida Gators vs Stetson Hatters Picks and Predictions December 29th 2024

No. 6 Florida Focused Amid Unbeaten Start, Ready for Stetson

As a team with national championship aspirations, No. 6 Florida isn’t allowing its perfect start to become a distraction. The Gators (12-0) are preparing for Sunday’s home game against Stetson in Gainesville, Fla., their final nonconference contest before diving into Southeastern Conference play.

A Strong Start, But No Complacency

Despite their dominance so far, Florida coach Todd Golden emphasizes maintaining focus.

“It’s a great start, but it’s just a start,” Golden said. “When we get back, we’re gonna treat it like we’re 0-0 in that we’ve got a new season ahead of us.”

The Gators showed their strength last Saturday with a commanding 99-45 victory over North Florida. Will Richard led the way with a career-high 26 points.

Ready to Bet on College Hoops? Check out NCAAB basketball picks today and bet with confidence.

Richard Finding His Groove

After a slower shooting start to the season, Richard has been red-hot. Over the past two games, he’s hit 77.3 percent of his shots (17 of 22), including 9 of 13 from beyond the arc, while scoring 48 points. Beyond his offense, Richard has made his presence felt on defense, leading the team with 2.2 steals per game. Golden praised the senior guard’s all-around contributions.

“The maturity that he’s shown this year is not allowing offense to affect defense and rebounding,” Golden said. “He’s been very consistent in those (areas) all year.”

Richard is one of three Gators averaging double figures, joining Walter Clayton Jr. (17.6 points per game) and Alijah Martin (14.9).

SEC Challenges Await

Sunday’s matchup against Stetson offers Florida a chance to fine-tune their play before embarking on a challenging SEC schedule. The Gators will face three consecutive Top 25 opponents: visiting No. 10 Kentucky, hosting top-ranked Tennessee, and traveling to No. 23 Arkansas.

“I think the team realizes what the potential is and what’s in front of us,” Golden said. “We’re competing to play for a national championship.”

Stetson Looks to Build Momentum

The Hatters (2-10) enter the game on the heels of snapping a 10-game losing streak with a 103-77 victory over Fort Lauderdale last Sunday. Mekhi Ellison led Stetson with 25 points, boosting his season average to a team-high 14.2 points per game.

Guards Jamie Phillips Jr. (10.9 points per game) and forwards Jordan Wood (12.2) and Josh Massey (10.8) add scoring depth for the Hatters, who have already faced SEC opponents Oklahoma and LSU this season, losing both matchups by wide margins.

Tired Of Missing The Mark?

Get Reliable NCAAB Picks Today!

Join Now!

Veteran Leadership Amid Change

Stetson sophomore guard Tristan Gross brings experience and leadership as the lone returning starter from last season’s NCAA Tournament team. Gross recognizes the importance of setting the tone for a roster featuring nine new players.

“I have to bring that expectation from last year,” Gross said. “We have to play together. We have to play hard. We can’t come in lackadaisical and not respecting our opponent.”

What’s at Stake

Florida aims to extend its unbeaten streak and head into SEC play with momentum, while Stetson seeks to build confidence against a top-tier opponent. For both teams, Sunday’s game serves as a critical stepping stone as they prepare for their respective conference battles.