No. 19 Florida dominates paint, beats No. 23 Alabama after Golden's guarantee

Gators' frontcourt leads the way in lopsided victory over Crimson Tide

Feb. 1, 2026 at 4:15pm

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No. 19 Florida defeated No. 23 Alabama 100-77 in a dominant performance, led by Alex Condon's 25 points and Thomas Haugh's 22 points. The Gators outscored the Crimson Tide 72-26 in the paint and forced 18 turnovers while committing just 2 themselves. Florida coach Todd Golden's pre-game guarantee that the Gators would win proved prophetic.

Why it matters

This win extends Florida's dominance over Alabama in the series, with the Gators now having won 5 straight against the Crimson Tide. It also showcases the Gators' frontcourt depth and defensive intensity, which will be crucial as they look to defend their national championship.

The details

Florida's frontcourt trio of Condon, Haugh, and Rueben Chinyelu combined for 61 points, 29 rebounds, and 5 blocks, completely controlling the paint. Boogie Fland also had a standout game with 15 points, 8 assists, and a career-high 8 steals, limiting Alabama's leading scorer Labaron Philon to just 14 points. The Gators used a 13-2 run late in the first half to build a 10-point lead at the break, then scored the first 12 points of the second half to put the game out of reach.

  • The game was played on Sunday, February 1, 2026.
  • Florida coach Todd Golden made his guarantee about beating Alabama just over a week before the game.

The players

Alex Condon

A key player for the Florida Gators, scoring 25 points in the win over Alabama.

Thomas Haugh

Contributed 22 points to Florida's dominant victory over the Crimson Tide.

Rueben Chinyelu

Florida's frontcourt player who had 14 points and 17 rebounds in the game.

Boogie Fland

The Gators' point guard who had 15 points, 8 assists, and a career-high 8 steals, limiting Alabama's leading scorer.

Charles Bediako

The 7-foot Alabama player who is suing the NCAA to regain his college eligibility after leaving school and entering the NBA draft.

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What they’re saying

“we're gonna beat 'em anyways”

— Todd Golden, Florida Gators head coach

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

Florida gets a midweek bye before playing at Texas A&M next Saturday.

The takeaway

This dominant win over a ranked opponent showcases the depth and defensive intensity of the defending national champion Florida Gators, who will be a tough out for any team as they look to repeat as champions.