NASHVILLE – March Madness reared its ugly head to Florida basketball.
The top-seeded Gators were stunned by Vanderbilt in the SEC tournament semifinals 91-74 at Bridgestone Arena on Saturday, March 14.
Also in the process, Florida’s 12-game winning streak came to an end as UF will now wait to see their postseason fate during Sunday’s Selection Show.
Vanderbilt went on an 11-0 run, which is rare occurrence that the Gators have allowed to happen in less than half a dozen times this season.
The root of the Commodores’ success was Florida committing costly turnovers.
By halftime, Vandy scored 20 points from the Gators’ nine turnovers.
The last time Florida trailed by 10 or more points was against Auburn (15) back on Jan. 24, while the last time UF was down at halftime was against Texas.
Condon, who was the hero in the Kentucky victory as he delivered a double-double of 22 points and 10 rebounds, found himself on the bench for most of the second half.
Condon picked up his fourth foul at the 16-minute mark of the second half.
The Gators’ big man had 11 points and seven rebounds before he returned with 11 minutes left in the game. Condon also had five of Florida’s turnovers.
Florida’s dominance on the boards couldn’t hide the Gators’ offensive troubles. UF won the rebound battle 38-23, and hauled in 20 boards on the offensive glass.
The Gators shot just 45% from the floor and 29% from the 3-point line.
By comparison, Vanderbilt’s offense wasn’t taken back by UF’s defense with the Commodores shooting 54% and going 10 of 21 from the 3-point line.
Reach Florida Gators writer Andrew Abadie at AAbadie@usatodayco.com or on X (formerly Twitter) at @AndrewAbadie. You can also find him on Facebook at Andrew Abadie Sports Reporter or on Instagram @andrewabadie_sports.
