By: Eric Fawcett -- March 11, 2025 During the 2023-24 season, Florida’s offense wasn’t an issue. The Gators were 12th in KenPom’s adjusted offensive efficiency metric, and they semi-regularly put up triple digit score numbers that had opponent’s on their heels whenever they brought the ball up the court. Unfortunately, things weren’t so good on the defensive end which ultimately led to Florida’s early exit from the NCAA Tournament. Going into the 2024-25 season Todd Golden and his staff were determined to improve the defense from the 94th KenPom adjusted defensive efficiency mark they finished with the year prior. That meant bringing in Alijah Martin, Rueben Chinyelu, and Sam Alexis–three players known more for their ability to guard than their ability to put the ball in the hoop. It also meant some changes in defensive philosophy, such as helping more in the gaps on drives and stacking the strong side of the floor as opposed to staying glued to possible spot up shooters. The results have been positive. The Unexpected Secret Behind Florida’s Improved Defense | GatorCountry.com
Fan-freaking-tastic article, Eric! Very informative and insightful. I was reading it and thinking how this approach could be exploited and was then floored to read that our transition D is basically the best. Fascinating insight and use of metrics. TFG!
Gators outrebounded Bama 50-35. That stymied more than a few potential transition buckets for the Crimson Tide. It really slowed their roll and was the big reason for the Gator road-win.
