The Florida Gators (17-9, 8-5) fell to the Georgia Bulldogs (14-11, 5-8) 72-69 on Wendesday night.
Yante Maten was the difference in this game for the Bulldogs, scoring 23 huge points to continue to lead the SEC in scoring and grabbing ten rebounds for the double-double. It appeared that the Gators would win in regulation, but Maten hit a huge three-pointer to force overtime. Though Florida had plenty of chances in overtime, they missed five of their first six free throws to give Georgia the advantage. Down by three near the end of overtime, Chris Chiozza missed a long three point attempt and the Bulldogs would secure the victory.
Florida was led by 19 points and six rebounds from Egor Koulechov. They also got 19 points off the bench from KeVaughn Allen, but perhaps more significantly, Florida's leading scorer Jalen Hudson was held scoreless in 22 minutes of play, fouling out late in the overtime period.
The Gators return to action on Saturday when they head on the road to battle Vanderbilt. Tipoff Saturday is scheduled for 4 PM and can be heard throughout Tampa Bay on 620 WDAE & 95.3 FM.