Florida has secured its first trip back to the Final Four in college basketball since 2014 after defeating Texas Tech 84-79. The team’s national championship hopes were on the line, but senior guard Walter Clayton Jr. stepped up and made the biggest shots of his career.
Clayton scored 30 points in the final 1 minute and 47 seconds, including two clutch three-pointers that tied the score and gave Florida the lead back. He also made both free throws with 10 seconds left to seal the win. Despite being compared to NBA legend Steph Curry for his shooting ability, Clayton said he “blacked out” on the significance of the game.
Coach Todd Golden praised Clayton’s composure under pressure, saying he has a special talent and ability to stay even-keel in big moments. The team will face off against another top-ranked team in the Final Four.
Clayton had an impressive performance, going 13-of-14 from the line, including 11-of-12 in the second half. His teammate Thomas Haugh scored 20 points and grabbed 11 rebounds, while Alijah Martin chipped in with 10 points and seven boards.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6241009/2025/03/29/walter-clayton-florida-elite-eight-final-four