The No. 3 Florida Gators are entering the 2025-2026 men’s college basketball season on a high note, riding a 12-game winning streak that dates back to February 25 against Georgia. This impressive run includes triumphs in both the SEC tournament and the national championship, and they are eager to continue this momentum as they kick off a new season tonight at 7 PM against No. 13 Arizona in Las Vegas.
As the Gators step onto the court, they’ll face the challenge of maintaining their winning streak against a formidable Arizona team that reached the Sweet 16 last season and boasts the second-best recruiting class in the country. Both teams have seen significant changes in their rosters this offseason; Florida will be without their leading scorer and playmaker, Walter Clayton Jr., while the Wildcats also lost standout Caleb Love to the professional ranks. Despite these departures, both squads retain a core of returning talent, aiming to fill the gaps left by their key players.
One of the most intriguing matchups will be in the backcourt, where Florida’s new duo of Arkansas transfer Boogie Fland and Princeton transfer Xaivian Lee will look to establish their chemistry. They are stepping into shoes left by four departed guards and will face the established backcourt of Arizona, featuring returning starters Jaden Bradley and Anthony Dell’Orso. Bradley is anticipated to be the primary offensive weapon for the Wildcats, while Dell’Orso’s experience adds depth to their defense. Florida’s Fland, known for his on-ball defensive skills, is keen to challenge Bradley and make an early statement.
In the frontcourt, Florida’s strength lies in its returning players: Alex Condon, Thomas Haugh, Reuben Chinyelu, and Micah Handlogten. With such returning talent, coach Todd Golden expressed confidence, especially after Condon’s standout performance in the preseason against No. 17 Illinois, where he recorded 24 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 assists. The Gators boast a formidable physical presence compared to Arizona, who lost key player Henri Veesaar and are relying on five-star freshman Koa Peat to fill the void in the paint. Florida will be looking to leverage this advantage to control the game, utilizing their size and experience to their benefit.
The contrasting styles of play—Florida’s emphasis on size and athleticism against Arizona’s skilled backcourt—will create an exciting dynamic. Golden acknowledged the challenge ahead but expressed cautious optimism about the potential for an opening night victory that could set the tone for the season.
As the Gators aim for another national championship, they are reminded of their unprecedented back-to-back wins in 2006 and 2007. With a mix of returning talent and fresh faces, Florida is focused on executing their plan and making a strong first impression this season. The excitement surrounding the team reflects not just aspirations for championship glory, but also the hope of building lasting connections among teammates as they embark on this new journey together.