Top-Ranked Auburn Upset by Florida in Dramatic College Showdown

COLLEGE STATION, Texas — In a surprising turn of events on February 10, 2025, the top-ranked Auburn Tigers suffered a 90-81 defeat at the hands of the Florida Gators, ending their 14-game winning streak. This upset raises questions about Auburn’s position as the No. 1 team in the Associated Press poll ahead of Monday’s release.

Florida, now boasting a 20-3 overall record, led for much of the game, overcoming a second-half push from Auburn, which fell to 21-2. Walter Clayton Jr. starred for the Gators, contributing 19 points and nine assists, while Alex Condon secured a double-double with 17 points and 10 rebounds.

Despite a strong performance from Auburn’s Johni Broome, who recorded 18 points, 11 rebounds, and six assists, the Gators effectively neutralized Auburn’s prolific perimeter offense, allowing only four successful catch-and-shoot three-pointers. Auburn struggled at the rim, converting just 15 of 29 attempts, a significant drop from their usual 63.1% success rate.

Auburn’s head coach Bruce Pearl emphasized the need to regroup. “We just didn’t execute our game plan as we needed to,” he said. “We have to learn from this loss and move on.”

Florida’s victory marks a historic moment, as it represents the program’s first win against a No. 1-ranked team on the road. “This is a big win for us,” said Florida coach Todd Golden. “Our players executed the game plan brilliantly, and they should be proud of themselves.”

The Gators employed a strategic offensive approach that exploited Auburn’s weaknesses. They not only dominated the rebound battle but also recorded 22 assists, far surpassing Auburn’s typical defensive efficiency.

At the same time, Clemson handed No. 2 Duke a stunning 77-71 loss. Duke’s head coach Jon Scheyer acknowledged the challenges ahead. “We can’t overlook the importance of each game,” Scheyer said. “We need to refocus and prepare for our next challenge.”

Now, with both top teams facing defeats, the hierarchy of college basketball is set for a dramatic shift as the latest polls are anticipated. With rivalries heating up and tournament season approaching, the implications of Saturday’s results will resonate throughout the remainder of the season.

The upcoming matchups for Auburn will be crucial as they prepare to face Alabama following the upset. The landscape of college basketball is as unpredictable as ever, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting conclusion to the season.