The Florida men’s basketball team was one game away from reaching the NCAA Final Four last season, and this years squad is looking to play at least one more match this season.
Despite losing three seniors, optimism is high in the Gators camp that with the addition of Rutgers transfer Mike Rosario and the Gatorade National Player of the Year freshman Bradley Beal, that this could be a special season for Billy Donovan’s team.
Voters around the country seem to agree as the Gators are ranked No. 8 in the Associated Press preseason poll, their highest rankings since 2007.
Abundance of Guards
The Gators have an abundance of guards this season, so expect Donovan to extend the floor and become a more full-court defensive team this season.
Gatorade National Player of the Year
There is a lot of anticipation building over the anticipated performance of Beal this season. Beal was rated the No. 2 shooting guard in the nation by Rivals.com and ESPN, and has reportedly quickly made an impression on Donovan and his teammates.
Tough Non Conference Schedule
The Gators non-conference schedule this season includes Syracuse, Ohio State, Florida State, UAB and Texas A&M. These games should ensure that the Gators are battle-tested come SEC and tournament time.
Major milestone
The winningest coach in Florida history, Donovan begins his 16th season needing just five victories to reach the 400 win mark in his career. Donovan has led the Gators for two national championships, three Final Fours, four SEC Championship and 11 NCAA Tournament appearances. He won his first SEC Coach of the Year Award last season.
Florida Gators Basketball Roster
No. Player Ht. Pos. Yr.
1 Kenny Boynton 6-2 G Jr.
3 Mike Rosario 6-3 G R-Jr.
4 Patric Young 6-9 G So.
5 Scottie Wilbekin 6-2 G So.
11 Erving Walker 5-8 G Sr.
15 Will Yeguete 6-7 F So.
23 Bradley Beal 6-3 G Fr.
24 Casey Prather 6-6 F So.
33 Erik Murphy 6-10 F/C Jr.
34 Cody Larson 6-9 F/C R-Fr.
35 Walter Pitchford 6-10 F Fr.
