Opinion
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Can the Florida Gators Outmaneuver the Ole Miss Rebels at The Pavilion?

As the Florida Gators gear up to face the Ole Miss Rebels at The Pavilion, fans are eager to see if their team can carry forward their momentum from recent performances. In their last game on January 6 against the Kentucky Wildcats, a top-ranked team, FLA narrowly missed victory with an 85-87 loss. Despite this setback, there were several positive takeaways that suggest FLA could have an edge in their upcoming match.


Feb 15, 2023; Gainesville, Florida, USA; Mississippi Rebels forward Jaemyn Brakefield (4) makes a three point basket against the Florida Gators during the first half at Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O'Connell Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

The Gators showcased a balanced offensive strategy against UK, with a field goal percentage of 43 and converting 54 percent of two-point attempts. Their free throw percentage stood at 62, which though not stellar, was crucial in keeping them within striking distance until the final buzzer. Defensively, they managed to out-rebound UK with a total of 43 rebounds and demonstrated agility by stealing the ball eight times.


Comparing these stats to their dominant performance on December 30 against Quinnipiac Bobcats where they triumphed with a score of 97-72 paints an even more promising picture for FLA fans. Their field goal percentage was an impressive 52 percent and they excelled in assists with a ratio of 1.69.


Feb 15, 2023; Gainesville, Florida, USA; Mississippi Rebels forward Robert Allen (21) fouls Florida Gators forward Colin Castleton (12) during the second half at Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O'Connell Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Furthermore, when facing Grambling State Tigers on December 22 where they secured a comfortable win scoring 96 points against Tigers' mere 57 points, it was clear that FLA has no trouble putting up high numbers on offense when given control over the game's pace.


However, it would be remiss not to consider how well-prepared Ole Miss Rebels might be for this encounter. With home-court advantage and undoubtedly having studied FLA's recent games closely, MISS will look to exploit any weaknesses observed during those matches.


Feb 15, 2023; Gainesville, Florida, USA; Mississippi Rebels forward Jayveous McKinnis (00) drives to the basket as Florida Gators guard Myreon Jones (0) defends  during the first half at Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O'Connell Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

The key for FLA will be maintaining strong defensive pressure while continuing to execute efficiently on offense as they have shown capability in previous games. If they manage to keep turnovers low and capitalize on fast break opportunities as done previously – particularly evident by scoring nineteen fast break points both against UK and QUIN – then there is every reason for optimism among Gator fans.


Looking ahead at what promises to be an exciting clash between these two teams; supporters should mark their calendars for January 10th at The Pavilion in Oxford MS where tip-off is scheduled for nine PM Eastern Time. Fans unable or unwilling to brave what may well be chilly January weather can catch all the action live from comfort via SEC Network channel number six hundred eleven.

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