Florida Gators Clinch NCAA Title with Historic 12-Point Comeback Against Houston
Walter Clayton Jr.'s pivotal late-game contributions and Todd Golden's coaching milestone secure Florida's third national championship in a dramatic 65-63 victory.
- Florida overcame a 12-point second-half deficit to defeat Houston 65-63, tying for the third-largest comeback in NCAA championship history.
- Walter Clayton Jr., scoreless in the first half, delivered 11 second-half points and a critical defensive stop on Houston's final possession to seal the win.
- The Gators led for only 64 seconds, with Alijah Martin's free throws giving them the lead in the final minute, their first since early in the game.
- Head coach Todd Golden, at 39 years old, became one of the youngest coaches to win an NCAA title, marking a historic achievement in just his third season.
- Houston's renowned defense faltered in the final moments, with the Cougars failing to attempt a shot in the last 1:25, denying them their first national championship.
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