Florida Edges Houston 65-63 to Win Third NCAA Championship

Gators secure first national title since 2007 with clutch defensive stand in final seconds

The Florida Gators are once again atop the college basketball world after defeating the Houston Cougars 65-63 in Monday night's thrilling national championship game at the Alamodome in San Antonio.

Will Richard led Florida with 18 points and 8 rebounds, while Walter Clayton Jr. overcame a scoreless first half to finish with 11 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds. Alijah Martin's clutch free throws in the final minute gave the Gators their first lead since early in the first half.

Houston controlled much of the contest with their suffocating defense, building a double-digit advantage in the second half behind L.J. Cryer's shooting. However, the Gators mounted a furious comeback, and their defense sealed the victory by forcing two critical turnovers in the final minute.

The championship-clinching sequence came on Houston's final possession when Emanuel Sharp appeared ready to attempt a potential game-winning three-pointer but lost control of the ball as time expired.

"Our defense has been our identity all season," said Florida coach Todd Golden during the celebration. "When we needed to be at our best defensively, our guys showed tremendous heart."

This marks Florida's third national championship in program history and their first since completing back-to-back titles in 2007. For Houston, the heartbreaking defeat continues their championship drought despite making their seventh Final Four appearance in program history.

As confetti rained down, Clayton summed up the team's journey: "We've faced adversity all season, and tonight was no different. Everyone contributed to this win, and that's what makes this team special."