GAINESVILLE – The Florida Gators men’s basketball team arrived back in Gainesville on Tuesday to a hero’s welcome, carrying with them the NCAA National Championship trophy and ending an 18-year title drought.
The team capped off a historic season with a dramatic championship victory, securing the program’s third “Natty” and first title since 2007. Hundreds of fans gathered outside the Stephen C. O’Connell Center to celebrate the team’s return.
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“It was the best day of my life. Last night was the best night of my life,” a fan said during the celebration.
The Gators finished the season with 36 wins, the most in program history.
“Thirty-six wins — one of the best teams of all time in college basketball standing right here,” head coach Todd Golden said during a rally at the arena.
Florida’s run to the title included several nail-biting victories, including a gritty championship performance that left fans on edge until the final buzzer. Video highlights from the final seconds played on giant screens as the team celebrated with fans.
Gators forward Alex Condon, who sealed the game after jumping on the ball after Houston failed to get off a shot in the closing seconds of the game, told Local 10’s Christian De La Rosa that he was grateful for the opportunity.
“It was a crazy feeling. I don’t know, just happy to be back. Awesomeness. High fives,” Condon said.
Walter Clayton Jr., the team’s leading scoring in the tournament, didn’t hold back when asked what the win meant on a national level.
“Florida’s back on top and it’s going to continue,” Clayton said to loud applause.
The atmosphere in Gainesville remained electric throughout the night and into the next day.
Fans flooded the streets after the final buzzer, with most celebrations remaining peaceful.
However, local officials confirmed one man suffered non-life-threatening injuries after climbing atop a traffic light.
“It felt amazing. I dabbed up. I’m never washing this hand again. We’re the champions! Let’s go!” another Gators fan shouted.