LATEST NEWS: Florida Gators Are Bringing Him Back

The Florida Gators have recently made significant strides in both basketball and football, highlighted by notable player performances and strategic decisions.

**Basketball: Walter Clayton Jr.’s Return**

On February 8, 2025, Walter Clayton Jr. made a triumphant return from injury, leading the No. 6 Florida Gators to a 90-81 victory over the top-ranked Auburn Tigers. Clayton Jr. contributed 19 points and nine assists, playing a pivotal role in the Gators’ second upset of a top-ranked team this season, following their earlier win against then-No. 1 Tennessee. Alex Condon added 17 points and 10 rebounds, while Thomas Haugh and Will Richard contributed 16 and 12 points, respectively. This victory not only ended Auburn’s 14-game winning streak but also marked Florida’s first road win against a No. 1-ranked team in eight attempts. citeturn0news8

**Basketball: Olivier Rioux’s Historic Debut**

In October 2024, Olivier Rioux, a 7-foot-9-inch freshman from Quebec, joined the Florida Gators as a preferred walk-on. At 18 years old, Rioux became the tallest player in college basketball history, surpassing the previous record held by Kenny George at 7 feet 7 inches. Despite his towering stature, Rioux has shown significant improvement in his conditioning and skills, earning praise from head coach Todd Golden for his coachability and potential. While he may not see significant playing time in his freshman season, Rioux’s unique presence has made him a fan favorite and a promising project for the Gators. citeturn0news10

**Football: Billy Napier’s Return**

In November 2024, the Florida Gators made a strategic decision to bring back head coach Billy Napier. This move was aimed at strengthening the team’s performance and enhancing their recruiting efforts. Napier’s return is expected to have a positive impact on the Gators’ football program, with a focus on revitalizing the team’s competitive edge and building a strong foundation for future success. citeturn0search5

These developments underscore the Florida Gators’ commitment to excellence across both basketball and football, with strategic decisions and player performances propelling the programs forward.