Florida Gators vs Virginia Cavaliers Picks and Predictions December 4th 2024

Florida Gators: Dominant and Unbeaten

The No. 13 Florida Gators (8-0) are off to their best start since 2009, winning every game by double digits. Florida’s balance on both ends of the floor has fueled their dominance, with their most recent success coming from their title run in the ESPN Events Invitational, where they trounced Wake Forest and Wichita State by a combined 54 points.

At the core of Florida’s success is their dynamic backcourt trio:

• Walter Clayton Jr.: Averaging 17.4 points and 3.6 assists per game, Clayton was named MVP of the ESPN Events Invitational after scoring 40 points and hitting nine 3-pointers in two games.
• Will Richard: Adding 12.4 points per game with consistent scoring.
• Alijah Martin: The transfer from Florida Atlantic contributes 15.1 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 3 steals per game, showcasing versatility.

Florida’s defense and rebounding are also flourishing. Against Wake Forest and Wichita State, the Gators collected 100 rebounds while limiting opponents to just 60 boards. Washington State transfer Rueben Chinyelu (16 points, 20 rebounds, and 4 blocks) and Alex Condon (29 points and 17 rebounds in the Invitational) have made significant impacts in the frontcourt.

Head coach Todd Golden has emphasized the importance of defense:
“We’ve shown the ability to guard. If we can continue to grow on that side of the ball and maintain our efficiency on offense, we’re going to be tough to beat.”

Virginia Cavaliers: Leaning on Defensive Fundamentals

Virginia (5-2) is adapting to life without legendary coach Tony Bennett, who retired unexpectedly before the season. Interim head coach Ron Sanchez has maintained the Cavaliers’ traditional defensive identity, focusing on slowing the pace.

Virginia ranks last in Division I in possessions per game, a deliberate approach that has yielded success against weaker opponents but exposed vulnerabilities against ranked teams. The Cavaliers lost 64-42 to then-No. 11 Tennessee and 80-55 to then-No. 22 St. John’s in the Baha Mar Hoops Championship.

Since those defeats, Virginia has shown improvement, particularly in taking care of the basketball. Sanchez made a key lineup adjustment, replacing forward TJ Power with guard Andrew Rohde to go smaller and faster.

Key contributors for the Cavaliers include:

• Dai Dai Ames: The Kansas State transfer leads the team in scoring, matching a career-high 16 points in a 67-41 win over Holy Cross.
• Andrew Rohde and Isaac McKneely: Both guards add scoring punch, combining for 26 points in the win over Holy Cross.

Virginia’s deliberate style will face a significant test against Florida’s fast-paced, high-scoring attack.

Key Matchups to Watch

Walter Clayton Jr. vs. Virginia’s Defense

Clayton’s sharpshooting and playmaking will challenge Virginia’s ability to contain dynamic guards. The Cavaliers will likely need their defensive schemes to limit his open looks from beyond the arc.

Florida’s Rebounding Dominance

The Gators’ ability to crash the boards with Chinyelu and Condon could be a deciding factor. Virginia’s smaller lineup may struggle to contain Florida’s physicality inside.

Pace of Play

This game is a clash of styles: Florida thrives on quick transitions and offensive efficiency, while Virginia aims to slow the game and limit possessions.

Game Notes

• Florida’s Outlook: A win would set the Gators up for even tougher matchups against Arizona State (7-1) and No. 20 North Carolina (4-3).
• Virginia’s Struggles Against Ranked Teams: The Cavaliers are 0-2 against ranked opponents this season, losing by an average margin of 23.5 points.
• Last Matchup: These teams have not met in over a decade, making this an intriguing new chapter in the SEC/ACC Challenge.

Free College Hoops Picks to Start Your Day! Check out free NCAAB picks for top insights.

Prediction

Florida’s depth, shooting, and rebounding advantage give the Gators the upper hand. Virginia’s defensive approach may slow the pace temporarily, but Florida’s athleticism and offensive firepower should eventually overwhelm the Cavaliers.

Florida 76, Virginia 61