Florida Defeats Auburn, Reaches NCAA Championship Game

Walter Clayton Jr. led Florida to a 79-73 victory over Auburn in the NCAA Final Four, scoring 34 points to secure the Gators' first national championship game appearance since their back-to-back titles in 2006 and 2007. Florida, holding a 35-4 record, will face either Duke or Houston for the title, aiming for the SEC's first championship since 2012. Clayton's performance included a crucial three-point play with 1:33 left, highlighting his calmness under pressure. Alijah Martin contributed significantly with 17 points, while Auburn's Johni Broome struggled in the second half with an injured elbow. The Gators overcame a halftime deficit by forcing turnovers and improving their shooting accuracy. This victory extends Florida's winning streak to 11 games as they seek their next championship title.