- Top-seeded Florida extends win streak to seven with 26-point rout
- Walter Clayton Jr. scores game-high 23 points with four-point play
- Gators build 32-point first-half lead before Norfolk State rally
- Potential second-round matchup looms against two-time champion UConn
The Florida Gators demonstrated why they earned a No. 1 seed in March Madness, delivering a 95-69 statement win against Norfolk State. Shooting 60% from the field in the opening minutes, Florida established a 53-21 advantage before halftime – the largest first-half margin in this year’s tournament. All-American guard Walter Clayton Jr. electrified the Raleigh crowd with a four-point play that sparked an 18-4 scoring run, cementing Florida’s status as championship contenders.
Norfolk State’s late 11-0 surge before halftime provided temporary hope, but the Spartans couldn’t overcome Florida’s superior size and shooting accuracy. While undersized forward Jaylani Darden managed 15 points for the MEAC champions, the Gators’ defense held Norfolk State to 39% field goal accuracy through the first 25 minutes. Florida’s balanced attack saw four players score double digits, including Alijah Martin’s 17-point contribution off the bench.
The victory continues several notable March Madness trends. Since 2010, No. 1 seeds are 56-2 against 16-seeds in the tournament’s opening round. Florida’s 53-point first half marked the highest scoring output by any team in this year’s bracket phase. Sports betting analysts note that underdogs like Norfolk State have covered spreads in 68% of tournament games since 2022, evidenced by the Spartans beating the 28.5-point line despite the loss.
Regional analysis reveals SEC teams now hold a 15-3 tournament record over the past two seasons. Florida’s dominance in Raleigh extends the conference’s East Region success, where SEC squads have reached eight Elite Eights since 2015. The Gators’ transition offense proved particularly effective against Norfolk State’s zone defense, generating 32 fast-break points – third-most in program tournament history.
Looking ahead, Florida’s potential matchup with UConn would feature contrasting styles. The Huskies’ top-ranked defense (58.2 PPG allowed) would test Florida’s high-powered offense averaging 88 points during their win streak. Scouts will monitor Clayton’s perimeter shooting against UConn’s Tristen Newton, the AAC Defensive Player of the Year. Tournament veterans emphasize Florida’s need to maintain their first-half intensity after nearly squandering a 22-point lead against Georgia in the SEC semifinals.