Florida men’s basketball coach Todd Golden praised All-American guard Walter Clayton Jr.’s clutch performance, saying the young player is “the best guard in America.” With 30 points, including a game-high 13 scored over the final 5:24, Clayton led the top-seeded Gators to an 84-79 win against third-seeded Texas Tech and a spot in the Final Four.
Clayton’s heroics helped erase a 10-point deficit in the fourth quarter, with back-to-back three-pointers giving Florida its first lead since early in the half. He also made 13 of 14 free throws to seal the victory. The game was a nail-biter, but Clayton’s ability to get to the line and his shot-making were key factors in the Gators’ comeback.
Golden said Clayton’s similarity to Warriors guard Stephen Curry is not overstated, citing their shared shooting ability and clutch performances under pressure. Florida will face the winner of Sunday’s Auburn-Michigan State matchup on Saturday in San Antonio for a chance at its first NCAA championship since 2014.
The Gators have won 10 straight games and are looking to make history with Clayton’s guidance. His performance has earned him the West Region’s Most Outstanding Player award, cementing his status as one of the best guards in college basketball.
Source: https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/44460911/clayton-late-flurry-sends-no-1-florida-final-four