The Florida Gators (17-10, 8-6) fell to the Vanderbilt Commodores (11-16, 5-9) 71-68 on Saturday afternoon in Nashville.
The Florida Gators looked like they were going to snap the Commodores recent success at home, building a 34-28 halftime lead and leading by 11 with just under 14 minutes to go in the game. However, from there Vanderbilt was able to turn it on, gradually chipping away at the lead until they were able to take a 69-68 lead with just under two minutes to go. After the Commodores made two free throws, the Gators missed a chance to force overtime with Egor Kouechov missed a three-point attempt with six seconds remaining.
The Gators were led by 20 points and six rebounds from Keith Stone, while Vanderbilt was led by 26 points (including 12-for-12 from the free throw line) and seven rebounds from Jeff Robertson. Riley LaChance added 21 points in the winning effort for a Vanderbilt team that has now won five in a row (and eight of their last ten) at home.
The Gators next contest also comes in Tennessee as they battle the University of Tennessee on the road on Wednesday night. Tipoff between the Gators and Volunteers is scheduled for 9 PM Wednesday in Knoxville - you can hear it throughout Tampa Bay on 620 WDAE & 95.3 FM.