Florida's win over Kentucky adds to mounting evidence that a national title repeat is possible for Gators
CBS Sports
by
David Cobb
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Florida’s 92-83 victory over No. 25 Kentucky on Saturday not only solidified their position as serious contenders for a repeat national title but also showcased their growing dominance in the SEC race. The Gators, now ranked No. 14, sit atop the conference standings with six games remaining. This win comes after an impressive turnaround following a sluggish start to league play, where they began 0-1 but have since gone 10-1, making them the second most efficient team in college basketball behind only Houston.
The key to Florida’s success against Kentucky was their offensive efficiency and perimeter shooting. Xaivian Lee led the way with a career-high 22 points, while Urban Klavzar delivered crucial 3-pointers to quell Kentucky’s late-game rallies. This performance highlighted the Gators’ ability to step up their 3-point shooting, which had been a weak spot earlier in the season. Despite entering the game ranked 354th nationally in 3-point percentage, Florida made 10 of 28 shots from beyond the arc against Kentucky—a stark improvement that showcased their potential when they find their rhythm.
Defensively, Florida’s strength lies in their ability to control the glass and limit opponents’ opportunities. Their dominant performance against Kentucky, which included securing key rebounds and maintaining a strong defensive presence, underscored this strength. With players like Thomas Haugh anchoring the frontcourt, the Gators are not only tough on the boards but also versatile enough to adjust their lineup, as seen with Haugh’s
Verticals
sports
Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/14/2026