SAN ANTONIO — Walter Clayton Jr. is leaving a lasting impression on this NCAA Tournament, and Florida hopes to see him repeat his stellar performance one more time. The Gators, having reached the championship game, will take on Houston at the Alamodome on Monday night, thanks in large part to Clayton’s exceptional display on the court.
In the Final Four clash on Saturday, Clayton scored 34 points, hitting five three-pointers, as Florida triumphed over Auburn 79-73. This marks the Gators’ first national championship game appearance since their successful title runs in 2006 and 2007, making it a momentous occasion.
“Auburn couldn’t keep him in check,” said Bruce Pearl, Auburn’s coach, acknowledging Clayton’s essential role in Florida’s victory. In fact, no team has successfully contained the tournament’s leading scorer thus far. Clayton’s consecutive 30-point games in the Elite Eight and semifinals are reminiscent of Larry Bird’s performances for Indiana State in 1979.
“He exudes confidence,” said teammate Will Richard. “It’s no surprise for us watching him every day in practice. Now the world sees what we witness constantly.”
Florida (35-4) reached this point because of Clayton’s ability to rally the team, having carried them through tight situations. Highlights include his crucial 13 points in the last minutes of a prior game against UConn and his decisive three-pointers against Texas Tech.
“He always steps up when the stakes are high,” noted Florida coach Todd Golden. “His composure and clutch plays have been a constant for us throughout the season.”
A pivotal moment in the semifinal occurred when Clayton’s drive to the hoop came after Alex Condon drew a crucial charge against Johni Broome, despite Broome dealing with an elbow injury.
The intense SEC matchup culminated with a pivotal defensive rebound by Clayton, ensuring a Florida victory. Alijah Martin greeted Clayton with a nod and smile as he returned after securing the game. “Our unity on and off the court makes all the difference,” Clayton expressed.
The SEC had a significant presence in this NCAA Tournament, with 14 teams participating, seven reaching the Sweet 16, and dominating the Elite Eight and Final Four. Florida has a chance to secure the SEC’s first title victory since Kentucky’s win in 2012, continuing their impressive 11-game winning streak as they prepare to face Houston.
Martin, contributing 17 points, and Thomas Haugh, adding 12, supported Florida’s effort. Auburn led at halftime but couldn’t maintain the momentum against the determined Gators. “Auburn took the early advantage but we turned the game around with a strong second-half start,” said Golden, reflecting on the game.
Auburn’s Chad Baker-Mazara, playing despite a thumb injury, led his team with 18 points. Broome, facing tougher second-half challenges, finished with 15 points and seven rebounds, struggling to maintain his pre-halftime performance level.
Despite Broome’s evident physical challenges, he tried to contribute as the team faced difficulties. Post-game, emotions ran high for Broome as he processed the bittersweet conclusion to their tournament journey. Throughout the tournament, Broome played through a persistent elbow issue stemming from a fall in the previous game against Michigan State, showing resilience and determination.
“My elbow was manageable in the game, although it did cause trouble at times,” Broome stated. “We got what we aimed for but couldn’t convert to victory.”