GAINESVILLE, Fla. — In a thrilling matchup during the SEC/ACC Challenge, Walter Clayton lit up the scoreboard with 27 points, while teammate Alex Condon contributed significantly with 19 points and eight rebounds, leading the No. 13 Florida Gators to an impressive 87-69 victory over Virginia on Wednesday night. The Gators improved their season record to 9-0, marking their best start since the 2005-06 season, a year that culminated in a national championship. Their performance this season has been striking, as they have not only stayed unbeaten but have also won each game by at least 13 points.

The outcome was largely influenced by Florida’s defensive strategy, which effectively capitalized on Virginia’s turnovers. Florida converted 15 turnovers into 20 points, consistently exploiting the Cavaliers’ mistakes and demonstrating their defensive prowess throughout the match. Virginia, who were considerable underdogs by 17 1/2 points according to BetMGM, began the game with some resilience. However, the Gators’ depth and talent became evident as they clawed back from a nine-point deficit to take control in the second half.

In addition to Clayton and Condon, Alijah Martin added 16 points, and Denzel Aberdeen contributed 12 points to the Gators’ scoring. On the opposing side, Elijah Saunders was the standout performer for Virginia, leading his team with 19 points. Isaac McKneely offered a solid effort as well, finishing the game with 12 points, seven rebounds, and five assists.

**Key Developments**: Virginia has faced challenges this season, suffering double-digit losses in their toughest games, including a notable defeat against Tennessee (64-42) and against St. John’s (80-55). Meanwhile, Florida’s Clayton, who expressed confidence in the lead-up to the game regarding Virginia’s defense and specifically McKneely, showcased his skills effectively, managing to hit 10 of his 19 shots.

**Turning Point**: A pivotal moment came when Florida’s Gators knocked down three consecutive 3-pointers, igniting a 15-0 run that flipped a six-point deficit into a nine-point advantage in the first half, with Aberdeen sinking two long-range shots during that stretch.

**Noteworthy Statistic**: On the defensive end, Florida recorded nine steals in the matchup, which pushed their season total to an impressive 74 steals over just nine games, reflecting the team’s aggressive defensive approach under coach Todd Golden.

**Looking Ahead**: Virginia will seek to regroup as they open their ACC play against SMU on Saturday, while Florida gears up to face Arizona State in the Holiday Hoopsgiving event in Atlanta on December 14.