Gators Prepare to Face Norfolk State in NCAA Tournament Showdown

RALEIGH, N.C. — The Florida Gators, fresh off winning the Southeastern Conference championship, are set to take on the Norfolk State Spartans in the first round of the NCAA Tournament at 6:50 p.m. ET on Friday in the West Region. The Gators, a No. 1 seed, will face the No. 16 seed Spartans, who earned their spot by winning the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference title.

Norfolk State (24-10) is coming off a successful season, although they faced a tough opponent in the East Region earlier this season, losing to the No. 2 seed Tennessee by a score of 67-52. Head coach Robert Jones expressed confidence heading into the game against Florida, citing their experience against high-caliber teams.

“Without question,” Jones said. “That’s why you play those games… It prepares you for a situation like this. We were able to play five NCAA Tournament teams this year, so I can’t quite understand why we’re a 16 seed.”

Despite their underdog status, the Spartans are 28.5-point underdogs according to various sports betting apps, a clear indication of the challenge they face. Nonetheless, Norfolk State does have history on their side, famously upsetting No. 2 seed Missouri in the 2012 NCAA Tournament.

Jones, who was an associate head coach during that upset, remains optimistic about his team’s chances to shock the world again. He noted the talent across different programs has become increasingly similar.

“We can beat anybody,” he said. “The way the game is played now is that you’ve got high major kids that play mid-major, and vice versa. The talent level is not so distinct anymore.”

Florida (30-4) is regarded as one of the top teams in the nation after winning the SEC Championship, setting an SEC Tournament record with 104 points in their semifinal victory against No. 5 Alabama. Six Gators scored in double figures during that game, led by Walter Clayton Jr. with 22 points.

This season, Florida has matched its program record with eight wins over teams in the top 25, including three victories against top five opponents. Their No. 1 offensive efficiency and No. 2 KenPom rating signify their prowess on both ends of the court as they head into the tournament.

Historically, Florida has been successful as a No. 1 seed, with a 10-1 record in past tournaments. The Gators have made five Final Four appearances since 1994 and clinched national titles in 2006 and 2007.

While the odds may favor Florida, the upcoming game against Norfolk State serves as a reminder that upsets can and do happen. Jones concluded his remarks on a hopeful note, humorously asking for prayers as his team prepares for the monumental challenge.

“Thank you, and say a prayer for me,” he advised, highlighting the pressure that comes with such a high-stakes matchup.