Florida Gators Basketball Hour

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country, Burner Ball) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) discuss the fallout from Denzel Aberdeen's decision to transfer to Kentucky. What does it say about this era of hoops? How does Denzel fit at Kentucky? Why you can't fault Denzel-- or the fan reaction to the choice. Plus, where Florida is headed now in the portal, with a focus on Ohio's AJ Brown, who visited this week.Finally, thoughts on 2 new assistant hires. Why Dave Klatsky and Jonathan Safir will keep Florida on the cutting edge of the sport as they defend their national championship.

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) offers insight into Denzel Aberdeen's surprising decision to leave the University of Florida and enter the transfer portal.A 3 year Florida player and key contributor on the 2025 National Champions, Aberdeen's resilience and hard work were and are a testament to grit in an age when too many players leave at the first sign of adversity. Aberdeen stayed and became a beloved Gator and key cog on a national champion.Now he has decided to leave Florida, despite being a guaranteed starter with a huge NIL deal on a defending national champion.We explore why-- and evaluate the basketball sense of the choice.

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country, Burner Ball) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) breakdown Florida's 65-63 national championship game win over Houston on April 7, 2025. From the rough and tumble first half to Florida's rally from a 12 point deficit to the final defensive stands by the Gators, every angle in the national title game is covered and discussed. Plus, what is the legacy of this team? How did Todd Golden build a roster so capable of winning in multiple ways? What does a third national championship mean to Florida as a program? Where does this team sit in the pantheon of SEC basketball champions? Is Walter Clayton Jr. Florida's basketball "goat"?The guys discuss those topics, and Neil offers thoughts on what Florida needs to do to maintain its excellence as a basketball program well into the future.This and more in a CHAMPIONSHIP episode of Florida Basketball Hour. For more outstanding Florida hoops content SUBSCRIBE to the Patreon at www.patreon.com/floridabbhour.

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country, Burner Ball) is joined by a host of guests in the immediate aftermath of Florida's national championship clinching win over Houston on Monday night.Guests include:- David Waters of Gators Breakdown- Andy Hutchins of Alligator Army- Anthony Beck of Inside Swamp- Will Miles of Read and Reaction- Malik Grady and more in a special quick-take, championship edition of the podcast. The Florida Gators are national champions.

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Burner Ball, Gator Country) preview the national championship game between Florida and Houston. The Final Four road ends here.What are the keys to Florida winning its third national championship?What makes Houston so good? How do they guard at such an elite level, and can Florida avoid costly turnovers that give Kelvin Sampson and the Cougars simple buckets and points?How will Florida defend Houston's outstanding guards? Can Florida keep the Cougars off the offensive glass?What matchups are advantageous to Florida? Why does Houston need the best version of J'Wan Roberts to win?This and much, much more-- including predictions, in Florida Basketball Hour's preview of the national championship game.

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country, Burner Ball) is joined by Riley Davis (Heat Check CBB) to break down Florida's 79-73 comeback win over Auburn in the Final Four.Topics include: - How Florida adjusted defensively to slow Auburn's offense in the second half- Walter Clayton Jr.'s second consecutive 30 point performance makes a little NCAA Tournament history- Alijah Martin's awesome night- Florida's frontcourt responds to the challenge- How Florida wore out Johni BroomePlus, a preview of Monday night's national championship game against the Houston Cougars.

Heat Check College Basketball writer and analyst Riley Davis joins Eric Fawcett to break down the Final Four.How does Riley view the rematch between top overall seed Auburn and the Gators? What will Florida need to do to grab a second win over a great Auburn team this season? How will Auburn go about defending the Gators better in the rematch? Are Tahaad Pettiford and Denver Jones the key to an Auburn win? What about on the Florida side? What does Florida need from its frontcourt to grab a victory? What impact will Alijah Martin and Micah Handlogten have this time around after being unavailable in the first meeting?This and much more in a preview originally exclusive to our SIxth Man Club members and now available to all listeners.For more exclusive Florida content, subscribe to the Patreon at patreon.com/floridabbhour.

Ben Young of the Jungle Podcast (@AuburnJungle on X) joins the show to provide a scouting report and preview of Saturday's Final Four contest from the Auburn perspective.Auburn put together one of the greatest regular seasons in the history of college basketball. Ben breaks down how the SEC Champions did it, why their defensive resurgence has led their Final Four run, and how Tahaad Pettiford has become even more central to Auburn's success since their first game with Florida back on February 8.Plus, the battle inside, Dylan Cardwell the glue guy, Johni Broome's legacy, and much, much more.

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country, Burner Ball) team up to preview Florida's Final Four matchup with Auburn. Florida defeated Auburn 90-81 in the Jungle in February. Will the Gators win the rematch in what will be the biggest SEC Basketball game ever played? The guys break down the keys to the game, from slowing Johni Broome in the frontcourt, to corralling Auburn's awesome backcourt, to the continued outstanding play of Walter Clayton Jr. and Thomas Haugh. Plus, how will Florida integrate Alijah Martin and Micah Handlogten into their gameplan after both missed the game at Auburn in February. This and more in Florida Basketball Hour's Final Four preview. For more excellent and exclusive Florida and SEC basketball content, subscribe to FBH's patreon at patreon.com/floridabbhour.

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country, Burner Ball) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down Florida's 84-79 comeback win over Texas Tech in the Elite 8.How Florida erased a 10 point second half deficit in the final 3 minutes to advance to the program's 6th Final Four. The guys discuss it all, including:- Walter Clayton Jr.'s incredible shots late- Thomas Haugh as the best player on the floor- Florida rallying despite their frontcourt and pick and roll issues on defensePlus, parting thoughts on what this means for Florida basketball, and how grateful the guys are for the support of so many on this long journey.

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country, Burner Ball) take a deep dive into Florida's thrilling 77-75 win over UConn in NCAA Second Round action last Sunday in Raleigh. How Will Richard, Alijah Martin, and Walter Clayton Jr. pulled the Gators out of the fire and ended Danny Hurley and UConn's run of NCAA Tournament brilliance at 13 wins. Next, the boys preview the Sweet 16. Why Maryland and their Crab 5 starting lineup will be Florida's toughest test yet, how Florida might attack Maryland, why limiting 3 point attempts will be critical, and why Florida needs the best version of Alex Condon to advance. This and much more on the latest episode of Florida Basketball Hour.

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country, Burner Ball) and Brian Rauf (Heat Check CBB) break down Florida's EPIC 77-75 win over UConn on Sunday in Raleigh.How Florida ENDED UConn's NCAA Tournament winning streak at 13 with elite guard play and great coaching down the stretch. Plus, what's next for the Gators and what they can improve as the program heads to their first Sweet 16 since 2017.

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country, Burner Ball) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down Florida's 95-69 opening round victory over Norfolk State in the First Round of the NCAA Tournament on Friday night. How Florida built a 32-point first round lead, and what to make of Florida's sluggish second half. Plus, Micah Handlogten and Thomas Haugh impress off the bench, Walter Clayton Jr. and Alijah Martin look March ready, and where Florida can look to improve in the Round of 32. Finally, an early look at UConn and Oklahoma, the two teams Florida could play in the second round.

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country, Burner Ball) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down Florida's 86-77 win over Tennessee in the SEC Championship Game.How Florida weathered every Tennessee punch, defeating a Vols team that played well and was backed by a boisterous partisan crowd in Nashville.Plus, the BRACKETS have been revealed. Eric and Neil break down Florida's draw, why UConn PTSD makes sense but fear of UConn is unwarranted, the dangers of the Crab 5, and more. Plus-- listener questions!!

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country, Burner Ball) break down Florida's 104-82 win over Alabama in the SEC Tournament semifinal. How the Gators won their latest "1 seed game" to return to the SEC Championship Game for the second consecutive season. Topics discussed include: - Ball screen defense- Alijah Martin's impact on the program and defense- How Florida stifled Alabama in the second half - Walter Clayton Jr.'s excellent tournament continuesand much, much more.Plus, the guys preview the SEC Tournament Championship game. Will Florida win the rubber match with the Volunteers? What makes the Vols so good, and why Florida's defense- not its offense- may decide the basketball game. Finally, Selection Sunday. The guys make the case for Florida's 1 seed, and talk travel plans.

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) offers his thoughts on an incredible Thursday at the SEC Tournament. From buzzer beaters (plural!) to big comebacks, it was a Thursday to remember in Nashville.Plus, breaking down the SEC Quarterfinal games, including Florida-Missouri. What makes the Tigers so tough? How did they bother the Gators so much in the first game? Thoughts on the challenges posed by Mizzou and all 4 SEC quarterfinals.

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) is joined by Max Barr (Southeastern 16) to preview the SEC Tournament, which begins on Wednesday in Nashville. Barr helps break down the bracket, from Game 1 to the SEC Championship. Can Florida win their first SEC Tournament crown since 2014?Plus, thoughts on SEC awards, snubs, and Barr's outstanding "All Bully Ball" squad.

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country, Burner Ball) break down Florida's 89-70 win over No. 12 Texas A&M. How Florida took an early punch and rallied for a dominant victory. Plus, recapping a special day for the program, from College Gameday being in Gainesville to another electric environment in the O'Dome. The guys also talk a little March Madness, previewing a mock regional. Finally, an Alabama preview. What makes the Crimson Tide one of a handful of teams in America good enough to win the national championship? It's all in this episode.

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country, Burner Ball) offer their thoughts on Florida's upset loss at Georgia on Tuesday night.Why the loss isn't a sign the sky is falling, and a deep dive into what went wrong for the Gators, especially on defense in the first half as Florida fell behind by 26 points. Plus, thoughts on Florida's ball screen coverages as UF enters March. Finally, a preview of the Texas A&M Aggies, the bully ball kings who give the Gators a chance for another big time quality win.

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country, Burner Ball) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down Florida's blowout wins over Oklahoma and South Carolina.Plus:- The Case for Walter Clayton Jr. for First Team All-American- LSU and Georgia Road Trip- Alex Condon update- Florida's elite roster build...and much, much more.

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country, Burner Ball) break down Florida's 81-68 win at No. 22 Miss State.How Florida and glue guy Tommy Haugh changed the game with defense in the second half, why Florida's offensive scout was brilliant, and why Walter Clayton Jr. should be a First-Team All-American.Plus, a preview of Florida's tilt on Saturday night with the Gamecocks.Why Collin Murray-Boyles and the South Carolina frontcourt will push the Alex Condon-less Gators.

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country, Burner Ball) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down Florida's 90-81 upset of top-ranked Auburn on Saturday at Neville Arena.How the Gators set the tone for the game with their defense, especially from frontcourt pieces Alex Condon and Thomas Haugh. Plus, the case for Walter Clayton Jr. to be a consensus All-American, the rise of Urban Klavžar, and why this is the most impressive win in college hoops this season.

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) is joined by Graham Hall of 247 Sports to preview Florida's Tuesday night tilt vs. Vanderbilt. Plus, thoughts on Florida's flop on Rocky Top, what's impressed Graham about Florida's young frontcourt, the loyalty and toughness of Denzel Aberdeen, and much more.

Florida blasted Georgia 89-59 to collect their 12th straight win over the Dawgs. How Florida's pressure wilted Georgia, and why Florida's bigs gave Georgia's lottery pick, Asa Newell, so many problems. FBH analyzes how the Florida bigs do the little things and why the interior seals are the unsung hero of the Gators offense. Plus, thoughts on Walter Clayton Jr.'s best game as a Gator and his case for making the All-American team. FBH also breaks down the dismissal of the Title IX allegations against Todd Golden and why the Independent Florida Alligator made an egregious mistake publicizing unfounded allegations of complicity against 2 Florida assistants. Finally, a preview of Florida's trip to Tennessee, where a wounded, angry Volunteers team will look to avenge a 30 point loss to Florida on January 7.

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) break down Florida's thrilling 70-69 win at South Carolina on Wednesday night. In what forever will be known as "the Will Richard game", why the Gators showed their championship resolve in overcoming a 14-point deficit to win. Plus, what ails the Gators halfcourt offense? Should Florida press a little more? Are you concerned about Florida's frontcourt? Finally, at minute 31-- a preview of Georgia. Why this is Mike White's best Georgia team yet-- and how the Dawgs will test the Gators on Saturday in the O'Dome.

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country, Burner Ball) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down what went wrong in Missouri's 83-82 win at No. 5 Florida. The guys also answer a host of Patreon listener questions, including what the Gators could improve in their halfcourt offense, lineup rotations, and why defense could key a run to the Sweet 16 and beyond. Finally, why "Florida is back" despite the loss to Mizzou, and a preview of the Gators home tilt vs. Texas on Saturday.

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) break down Florida's 73-43 whipping of No. 1 Tennessee on Tuesday night in Gainesville. How Florida out-Tennessee'd Tennessee to dominate the glass, stifle the Vols offense, and win points in the paint 40-14 on their way to the program's first home win over a top-ranked opponent. Plus, why the Arkansas game in Fayetteville is a vital "show me" game after Florida's "Statement" win.

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) talk about Florida's 13-0 start to the season. Why Florida aces the eye test, even if they haven't played a truly elite opponent yet. Plus, why Florida is so hard to guard and why the defensive improvements should be sustainable as the Gators enter league play. Plus, a preview of Florida's trip to Rupp Arena to take on # 10 Kentucky. What makes Kentucky so good offensively, and a primer on how Florida may guard the Wildcats. Kentucky's defensive frailities are also discussed. Finally, a preview of Florida's SEC home opener against Tennessee. Can the Gators fell the unbeaten Volunteers?

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down trends from Florida's 9-0 start, including what's gone right for the Gators defensively and a look at fascinating lineup data. Plus, Florida is in the top 10. Why the Gators will be tested in their next 2 games-- a Holiday Hoopsgiving game in Atlanta against Arizona State and the Jumpman Invitational against UNC. Eric and Neil preview both contests, which feature difficult matchups that will challenge Florida in different ways.

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) is joined by Jacob Rudner (247 Sports) to break down Florida's rout of Virginia in the ACC-SEC Challenge. Jacob and Neil also discuss Florida's 9-0 start, the emergence of a strong 8 man rotation, improved defense, and the bigger tests to come in Arizona State and North Carolina. Plus, what a wagon the SEC is-- a 14-2 win over the ACC in the Challenge and a league where 13-5 might win a championship.

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down Florida's rout of Southern Illinois, which featured suffocating defense and 32 points from Alijah Martin. Also: a Feast Week preview! What to expect from the ESPN Events Invitational which features Florida, Wake Forest, Minnesota, and Wichita State.

Welcome FEAST WEEK!! Neil W. Blackmon of Saturday Down South previews the most epic week of college basketball until March. From the Charleston Classic to the NIT, we've got your Feast Week viewers guide. Plus, finding positives in a sleepy win over Florida A&M, and a preview of a tricky test against a solid Southern Illinois team on Friday night in Gainesville.

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) talk Florida's 3-0 start on the floor and address the Todd Golden situation off the floor. What we know about the Title IX investigation, what remains unknown, and why it's irresponsible to form conclusions at this point in time. Other topics include: why the Florida backcourt appears as good as advertised, what to make of the frontcourt, and what to expect from buy games generally. Plus, a preview of Friday's rivalry game at Florida State.

Basketball Season is here!! Jake Winderman (CBS Sports) joins the show for the annual over/under episode, where the guys discuss a host of topics, including Florida's defensive improvement, Walt Clayton's All-American prospects, and much more. Topics include: Florida's Quad 1 win total, predicted SEC finish, the most-improved Gators, a plea to free Urban Klavzar, Alijah Martin's impact, and many others.

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) is joined on this episode by Max Barr (Southeastern 16) to break down the SEC ahead of the 2024-25 season. Is this the best league in America? Is Alabama the national title favorite? Did you know Miles Kelly was "basically Steph Curry?" Why Florida and Kentucky are the most intriguing rosters, why Georgia might be good, and why we might be underestimating Mizzou. This and more on a packed episode and 16 team preview of SEC hoops.

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) take listener questions as the Gators open fall camp. Topics discussed include: - what would be a successful season for Florida - Starting 5 - newcomer FBH is most excited about - Can Florida score? - Non-conference schedule and much, much more. Plus, a handful of news and notes from the opening of fall camp and early practices.

In our opening episode for season 7 of the podcast, FBH sits down with Carlin Hartman, the associate head coach for Florida Men's Basketball, to talk year 3 of the Gators under head coach Todd Golden. Plus, candid conversation and reflections on Coach Hartman's coaching journey, the power of building a program by listening to players, and using hoops as a vehicle to do good in the community.

Fresh off an unbelievable performance at the FIBA Eurobasket 2024 championships, Eric Fawcett sat down with one of the newest Gators, point guard Urban Klavžar. Klavžar talked about his experiences in European club basketball, his family connections to the game, and why longstanding relationships made him choose Florida.

Florida big man Olivier Rioux joins FBH to discuss his journey from Canada to IMG and ultimately, to Todd Golden and the Gators. Rioux tells his story, from youth hoops at the age of 5 to the Canadian National Team at the FIBA U19 World Cup and U18 FIBA Americup. Rioux dishes on which Gators teammates keep the team loose, why he chose Florida, the joy of a dish of poutine, and more.   To support athletes like Olivier Rioux, visit Florida Victorious at https://floridavictorious.com/.

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) discuss the commitment of four star wing CJ Ingram to Florida. Why Ingram is a massive get with NBA upside, and what work he'll need to do at the collegiate level to reach his lofty potential. Plus, Neil and Eric discuss Olympic basketball, the commitment of Santa Fe guard Kevin Pazmino, and Florida's finalized non-conference schedule.

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down Florida's final 2 roster additions of the offseason in Urban Klavžar and Viktor Mikic. Why Klavžar will help the Gators immediately, and why Mikic is an exciting add from a value standpoint. Plus, are computers and preseason polls disrespecting the Gators?

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down the return of Florida's Walter Clayton Jr. and Will Richard. What the return of two senior starters means for the Gators, and how each team can improve in 2024-25. Plus, a fair NBA comparison for Clayton Jr., and the improvement at the margins that would be a gamechanger for Richard. The guys also pay homage to Bill Walton, who took a joy ride through the cosmos and infused us all with happiness along the way.

Jake Winderman (CBS Sports) joins Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) to discuss Florida's SEC basketball schedule, which was just released by the league this week. Neil and Jake also break down the winners and SEC Contenders from Portal Season, with a focus on the teams they believe can win the SEC in 2024-2025. Finally, are the Gators deep enough to go deep? Jake and Neil on how they'd like to see Florida fill out its roster.

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down Florida's work in the transfer portal through May 1, 2024, when the portal closed. The guys also discuss where Florida can go from here with 2 roster spots remaining, and answer a host of questions from FBH's Patreon subscribers. Be sure to subscribe at patreon.com/floridabbhour.

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) offer breakdowns of Florida's newest portal additions, Sam Alexis of UT Chattanooga and Reuben Chinyelu of Washington State. What to expect from the 2 newest Gators frontcourt pieces, and why Todd Golden's defensive thinking may have influenced the decisions to recruit these players. Plus, Florida lands its first top 50 recruit of the Golden era. What to expect from Alex Lloyd, the top 50 guard from Westminster Academy in Fort Lauderdale who chose the Gators on Wednesday over Michigan State and Miami, among other programs.

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) answer questions asked by our Patreon subscribers. Questions range from transfer portal targets to defensive scheme to what to expect from Florida on the recruiting trail. The national championship game, between UConn and Purdue, is also previewed.

FBH sat down with former All-SEC Gator Jennifer George to chat about Florida hoops on the men's and women's sides. What she likes about the build of each program, and what she hopes to see in 2024-25. We also talked about Jennifer's charity, the Girls Basketball Worldwide Foundation, which brings hoops into underserved communities, offering young girls the game and mentorship and educational opportunities along the way. Be sure to check out the upcoming charity event--the Greens for Hoops Golf Scramble-- where opening night festivities tickets are still available. Learn more at: https://www.instagram.com/greensforhoopscramble/.

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down Florida's 102-100 loss to Colorado in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. Yes, the referees were abysmal. Yes, Florida was bad on defense. Yes, Walter Clayton was a win away from being immortal. Yes, it was a good season. But it left us all wanting a little more... Plus, an overview of Florida's portal needs, and a 10,000 foot view of the program after Todd Golden's second season in Gainesville.

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) break down Florida's 7 seed on Selection Sunday. Why a 7 seed was wrong, but could work in Florida's favor. Plus, previews of Florida's opening round matchup, which will be against the First Four winner of Colorado/Boise State. The guys also recap Florida's tough SEC Championship Game loss to Auburn. Finally, a peek ahead to why a second round matchup with Marquette might favor the Gators.

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) breakdown Florida's epic comeback win over Texas A&M in the SEC Tournament semifinals. How Denzel Aberdeen and Alex Condon keyed the Gators rally against the Aggies-- and why Florida's defense won the day early in the second half. Plus, our preview of the SEC Championship Game, against an Auburn team with an exceptional frontcourt and depth-- but no elite talent-- at guard.

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down Florida's 85-80 SEC Tournament win over Georgia. Why the 11th straight win over Georgia is always the toughest, and what to expect in Florida's SEC quarterfinal against Alabama. Plus, bracketology, SEC Tournament thoughts, Nashville food, and much more...