GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The 2025 NCAA men's basketball champion Florida Gators returned Tuesday to a euphoric campus.
The Gators claimed their third national championship in hoops Monday night — joining 2006 and 2007 — with a narrow 65-63 victory over Houston at the Alamadome in San Antonio.
Despite what was likely a lack of much sleep, players and coaches stepped onto the stage at Flavet Field and were greeted by fans celebrating and chomping.
The party was delayed for about couple hours before the team plane arrived, but that didn't deter the fans who came out.
“It’s everything we need to honor these guys with all the commitment and hard work they put in," said Gators fan Kim Coffee. "We’re just reciprocating by showing our support for them. They were fantastic.”
Tournament MVP Walter Clayton Jr. had the championship trophy in hand, and he and coach Todd Golden spoke to the crowd.
“I’m so proud to attend a school like this," said stsudent Grace Tucceri. "Every single person in the street was like, 'It’s great to be a Florida Gator and a national champion. Let’s go!'”
Use the video player above to watch the coverage that aired today on Spectrum News.
Another celebration will take place Saturday at the school's football stadium.
