Florida Gators Advance to ESPN Invitational Final

The No. 18 Florida Gators defeated Wake Forest 75-58 in the semifinals of the ESPN Events Invitational, improving to a 7-0 record for the first time in 12 years. Despite shooting only 39.7% from the field, Florida's dominant defense held Wake Forest to 37.5% shooting and secured a significant rebounding advantage of 44-30. Walter Clayton Jr. led the Gators with 21 points, while Alijah Martin and Will Richard contributed 16 and 14 points, respectively. Florida's ability to force turnovers and score off them proved crucial, as they capitalized on 13 Wake Forest turnovers for 21 points. The Gators will face Wichita State in the championship game, both teams remaining unbeaten in the tournament. Florida's defensive improvements this season have been notable compared to last year's struggles, a fact acknowledged by Wake Forest's coach Steve Forbes.