The Florida Gators men’s basketball team delivered a resounding statement victory on Sunday, February 1, 2026, clobbering the No. 23 Alabama Crimson Tide 100-77 at Exactech Arena at the O’Connell Center in Gainesville. This dominant performance marked No. 19 Florida’s fifth consecutive win over Alabama, improved their record to 16-6 overall and 7-2 in SEC play, and solidified their status as a serious contender in one of the nation’s toughest conferences. In front of a sold-out crowd of over 10,000 roaring Gators fans, Florida showcased elite interior dominance, suffocating defense, and efficient offense to turn a ranked matchup into a blowout.
The game came amid pre-game drama, with Florida coach Todd Golden confidently declaring the Gators would handle Alabama “anyways” despite the Crimson Tide’s return of former G League big man Charles Bediako. Golden’s words proved prophetic as his team backed them up emphatically, outscoring Alabama 72-26 in the paint and forcing 18 turnovers that led to 25 points. This top-25 win highlighted Florida’s evolution under Golden into a disciplined, physical squad capable of overwhelming opponents on both ends.
Here are the key elements from this impressive clobbering:
Florida’s Frontcourt Overwhelmed Alabama Inside The Gators’ big men put on a clinic, combining for massive production and controlling the game’s tempo. Junior forward Alex Condon led all scorers with a season-high 25 points on efficient shooting (11-of-15 from the field in some reports, though exact splits vary), adding seven rebounds, six assists, two blocks, and two steals in a near All-American performance. Coach Golden praised him post-game: “Today, he looked like a first-team All-American… that’s a hell of a ball game.”
Thomas Haugh complemented him with 22 points, providing scoring punch and stretch ability. Center Rueben Chinyelu anchored the glass with a double-double (points and rebounds in double figures, including a game-high rebound total around 17 in related coverage), plus strong rim protection. The trio, along with contributions from Micah Handlogten and even a late hook from 7-foot-9 walk-on Olivier Rioux (who hit a shot to reach 100 points with 30 seconds left), overwhelmed Alabama’s frontcourt. Bediako struggled, finishing with limited impact, fouls, and a negative plus/minus. Florida’s 44-33 rebounding edge and historic 72-26 paint points advantage dictated everything.
Defensive Intensity and Turnover Exploitation Fueled the Rout Florida’s defense was relentless, pressuring Alabama into a season-high 18 turnovers while committing just two themselves—a season low. Point guard Boogie Fland was instrumental, flirting with a triple-double and recording eight steals that sparked transition opportunities. The Gators converted those miscues into 25 points and held a staggering 26-3 edge in fast-break scoring.
Alabama, typically efficient offensively, couldn’t establish rhythm under Florida’s active hands, help rotations, and on-ball pressure. The Tide shot poorly inside and struggled to get clean looks, as Florida limited them to one-and-done possessions. Shooting 51% overall with 24 assists on made baskets, the Gators played with poise and unselfishness, turning defense into easy offense.
A Signature Win Elevates Florida in the SEC Race This wasn’t just another victory—it was a signature top-25 demolition that positions Florida as perhaps the SEC’s team to beat at this stage. With four ranked wins in recent stretches and high-scoring consistency (cracking 100 here), the Gators are playing their best basketball mid-season. The electric sold-out atmosphere amplified the dominance, showing the program’s momentum under Golden.
For Alabama (now 14-7, 4-4 SEC), the loss exposed inconsistencies, particularly defensively against physical teams and in turnover management. Despite talent, they couldn’t match Florida’s intensity or adjust to the paint attacks. Questions remain about road toughness in a deep conference.
The win extends Florida’s streak over Alabama to five and reinforces their identity: tough, efficient inside, smart defensively, and capable of blowing out quality opponents. As SEC play intensifies, this performance signals March potential for the Gators.
Overall, Florida’s 100-77 clobbering of Alabama was a complete-team effort showcasing why they’re rising in rankings and discussions. The frontcourt trio’s dominance, defensive pressure, and crowd-fueled energy created an unforgettable afternoon in Gainesville—one that Gator fans will remember as a defining moment in the 2025-26 season.
