Florida Gators Set for Sweet 16 Showdown Against Maryland Terrapins

SAN FRANCISCO, CA — The No. 1 Florida Gators take on the No. 4 Maryland Terrapins in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at the Chase Center in San Francisco. The game is set to tip off at 7:39 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on TBS.

Both teams enter this matchup with high-scoring offenses, as Florida ranks third nationally with an average of 85.4 points per game, while Maryland follows closely in 23rd place with 81.4 points per game. This contest marks an important milestone for both teams, with Florida seeking its first Elite Eight appearance since 2017 under head coach Todd Golden, and Maryland looking to reach the Elite Eight for the first time since its national title run in 2002.

Florida’s leading scorer, Walter Clayton Jr., has been instrumental in their success this season, averaging 17.9 points and 4.2 assists per game. “The separator for our team is what I call our team talent, the way our guys play together – the unselfishness, their willingness to support whoever’s night it is,” Golden said at a press conference. The Gators boast a strong frontcourt featuring Rueben Chinyelu and Alex Condon, both of whom have shown proficiency in defending against opposing big men.

On the other side, Maryland is led by freshman center Derik Queen, who contributes significantly with a scoring average of 16.2 points per game and 9.1 rebounds. Queen, along with Julian Reese, forms a formidable frontcourt duo that poses challenges for the Gators’ defense. “Ju has been a big brother all year,” Maryland coach Kevin Willard stated, emphasizing the camaraderie between his players. “On the court, he’s helped Derik develop tremendously.”

As the game approaches, Golden expressed a sense of nostalgia for the Bay Area, where he previously coached. “It was a full-circle moment, going back to San Francisco and reconnecting with old friends,” he reflected. However, his focus remains on the task ahead against a talented Maryland squad.

Maryland’s recent performances suggest they are ready for the challenge, having exceeded expectations in the tournament thus far. Their success hinges on strong play from both their starters and bench players. “I think we can compete with anyone if we play our game,” Queen remarked, hinting at the team’s confidence heading into the matchup.

The game will also feature a strategic battle between the two coaching staffs, as Golden and Willard implement their respective tactical adjustments to counter each other’s strengths. With both teams aiming for a victory to propel them further in the tournament, fans can expect a high-energy clash filled with critical plays.

The atmosphere at the Chase Center promises to be electric, as both fan bases rally for their teams. With the stakes high and each possession crucial, the outcome of this game could shape the trajectory of the tournament for both Florida and Maryland.