Overview

• The Florida Gators overcame a 12-point second-half deficit to defeat the Houston Cougars 65-63 in the NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship in San Antonio.
• Walter Clayton Jr., who had been pivotal throughout the tournament, scored 11 points and was named Final Four’s Most Outstanding Player despite being held scoreless in the first half.
• Houston’s L.J. Cryer led all scorers with 19 points, but the Cougars’ offensive struggles in the second half, including a critical turnover in the final seconds, proved costly.
• Florida’s Will Richard contributed 18 points, including four three-pointers in the first half, keeping the Gators within striking distance before their rally.
• The victory marks Florida’s third NCAA title and first since 2007, while Houston’s quest for their first championship ended in heartbreak despite a record-setting season.