Missouri (22-10) vs Florida (27-4)
- When: Mar 14 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Bridgestone Arena, Nashville, TN, USA
- Where to watch: SECN
Florida vs. Missouri Betting Preview & Predictions
The SEC Tournament quarterfinals bring an intriguing matchup between second-seeded Florida Gators and seventh-seeded Missouri Tigers on Friday in Nashville. While Florida has its eyes set on improving its NCAA Tournament seeding, Missouri is looking to build momentum after a solid first-round win.
Florida Gators Outlook
The No. 21-ranked Gators (27-4) have secured a strong spot in the NCAA Tournament, but head coach Todd Golden isn’t satisfied. Despite being projected as a No. 2 seed, Florida has its sights set on moving up to a No. 1 seed, which would require running the table in the SEC Tournament.
Golden emphasized the importance of continuing to push forward, stating, “We’re in a really good position, but we want that top spot. Pride-wise, we’ll do everything we can to earn it.”
Florida has been dominant all season, finishing 13-0 in non-conference play and securing two massive wins over top-ranked teams in SEC action—a 73-43 rout over Tennessee and a 90-81 road win at Auburn. Their latest performance, a 90-71 blowout over Ole Miss, further showcased their firepower.
Key Players to Watch
Walter Clayton Jr. (G): Coming off a 23-point performance with five made threes.
Alex Condon (F): Averaging 22 points and 12.5 rebounds in his last two games, including a career-high 27 points against Alabama.
Gators’ Defense: Florida has held its opponents to under 70 points in four of its last six games, showcasing their ability to control tempo and force bad shots.
The Gators will also be looking for revenge after falling to Missouri 83-82 in Gainesville during their lone regular-season matchup.
Missouri Tigers Outlook
The Tigers (22-10) are playing with house money after knocking off Mississippi State 85-73 in the second round. Despite struggling with a three-game losing streak to end the regular season, Missouri found its rhythm Thursday, led by Tamar Bates (25 points) and Tony Perkins (20 points).
Head coach Dennis Gates believes Florida is being undervalued, stating, “They’re a No. 1 seed in my eyes. They don’t get the credit they deserve.”
Key Players to Watch
Tamar Bates (G): Scored 23 points in the win over Mississippi State and could be a key factor in Missouri’s offense.
Tony Perkins (G): Dropped 20 points and has been one of the team’s most reliable scorers.
Missouri’s Defense: They forced 10 turnovers and held Mississippi State star Josh Hubbard to 3-for-14 from beyond the arc.
However, Missouri could be shorthanded. Forward Mark Mitchell left Thursday’s game with a knee injury, and his status remains uncertain.
Betting Prediction & Best Bets
Florida comes in well-rested and motivated to dominate this tournament, especially after their earlier loss to Missouri. Meanwhile, Missouri had to expend a lot of energy in their first-round game and now faces a quicker, more athletic Florida team that thrives in transition.
The Gators have the size, depth, and offensive firepower to pull away late. If Missouri struggles with turnovers again, Florida should cover this spread.
🔹 Best Bet: Florida -9.5
🔹 Lean: Over 162.5 – Both teams love to push the pace, and their previous meeting combined for 165 points. Expect a high-scoring battle.
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
