
Clayton Scores 22 as No. 4 Florida Beats No. 5 Alabama 104-82 in SEC Semis
In a thrilling semifinal match of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Tournament, No. 4 seed Florida Gators showcased a dominant performance against the No. 5 seed Alabama Crimson Tide, securing a convincing 104-82 victory. The game, held at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, saw Florida's standout player, Walter Clayton Jr., lead the charge with an impressive 22 points, significantly contributing to the Gators' success.
The match was a testament to Florida's offensive prowess, as they shot an outstanding 60% from the field, displaying a level of efficiency that Alabama struggled to match. The Gators' relentless attack was highlighted by their ability to score from various positions on the court, with multiple players contributing to the scoreboard. Alongside Clayton's stellar performance, teammates Tyrese Samuel and Zyon Pullin also played pivotal roles, adding 17 and 18 points, respectively.
Despite a valiant effort from Alabama, the team could not keep up with Florida's high-octane offense. The Crimson Tide's leading scorer, Mark Sears, managed 22 points, but it was not enough to bridge the gap created by Florida's relentless scoring. Alabama's defense, usually a strong point, was unable to contain the Gators, who capitalized on fast breaks and second-chance opportunities.
This victory propels Florida into the SEC Tournament final, where they will face either No. 1 seed Tennessee or No. 2 seed Kentucky, setting the stage for an exciting championship game. Florida's performance in the semifinals not only showcased their depth and versatility but also solidified their status as a formidable contender in the college basketball landscape.