Opinion
3 min read

Clash at Exactech Arena: Florida Gators to Host Mississippi State Bulldogs

As the Florida Gators prepare to host the Mississippi State Bulldogs at the Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O'Connell Center, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be an electrifying matchup. The Gators, coming off a string of impressive performances, look poised to continue their dominance on their home court.


Jan 7, 2023; Gainesville, Florida, USA; Florida Gators forward Colin Castleton (12) and Florida Gators forward Alex Fudge (3) battle for a rebound during the first half against the Georgia Bulldogs at Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O'Connell Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-USA TODAY Sports

In their recent game on December 22 against Grambling State's Tigers, the Gators showcased a high-octane offense that racked up 96 points with an astounding field goal percentage of 62 and a three-point shooting rate of 52 percent. Their defensive prowess was equally impressive, limiting turnovers and dominating rebounds with a total count of 41.


The Bulldogs will have their work cut out for them as they face a team that has been firing on all cylinders. The Gators' ability to spread the floor and convert from beyond the arc will challenge any defense, and when coupled with their speed in transition – as evidenced by their fast break points – they become an even more formidable opponent.


Mississippi State must bring its A-game defensively if it hopes to contain this multifaceted attack. They'll need to focus on disrupting passing lanes and controlling the paint while also being mindful not to send Florida players to the line where they've proven deadly accurate.


While it's clear that FLA is entering this game with momentum, basketball is unpredictable by nature. The Bulldogs have every opportunity to craft a strategy that could stifle FLA's rhythm and create openings for themselves offensively.


Looking back at FLA's performance against East Carolina Pirates on December 15 shows some areas where MSST might find leverage; despite winning that game too, turnovers were higher for FLA which could be exploited by MSST’s defense if history repeats itself.


However, given recent form and home-court advantage – not forgetting those roaring fans who will pack out Exactech Arena – it seems likely that FLA will emerge victorious once again when they take on MSST come January 25th at 8:30 PM EST.


Fans eager not to miss any action can tune into SEC Network channel 611 nationally or make sure they're seated comfortably in Gainesville come tip-off time for what promises another showcase of collegiate basketball talent.

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