Florida Basketball Set for High-Stakes Showdown Against UConn Huskies in 2025 Jimmy V Classic—Who Will Rise?

Well, here’s a juicy scoop that’s bound to stir some early-season hype: the Florida Gators are gearing up to lock horns with the UConn Huskies in the 2025 Jimmy V Classic, set for none other than the iconic Madison Square Garden on December 9. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill meeting — it’s their second face-off in 2025 after the Gators stunned the two-time defending national champs in the NCAA Tournament. Talk about a rematch with serious swagger.

The Jimmy V Classic isn’t just another game on the calendar; it’s a tribute to the legendary Jim Valvano, a showcase that consistently delivers high-octane college basketball while championing cancer research. For the Gators, this marks their first trip to the Classic under Todd Golden’s leadership, who’s been quietly crafting a powerhouse after last season’s title run. Though they’ve lost the dynamo Walter Clayton Jr. to the NBA draft, the squad looks primed to prove that the crown isn’t up for grabs yet.

Taking on UConn so early offers Florida a prime testing ground — a moment to tweak lineups, spark chemistry, and reinforce their status among college basketball’s elite. Oh, and while all eyes are on this marquee clash, keep in mind BYU will be battling Clemson on the same stage, adding even more sizzle to this already stacked event.

History reminds us the Gators have only two wins in seven tries versus UConn since their first win in ’94, so this showdown is packed with narrative tension. Details on tip-off and broadcast will follow, but mark your calendars — this is one to watch.

LEARN MOREThe Jimmy V Classic, named in honor of legendary NC State head coach Jim Valvano, annually showcases top-tier college basketball matchups while raising awareness and funds for cancer research.Also during the event, Rothstein reported that the BYU Cougars will face the Clemson Tigers.This will be Florida’s first appearance in the Jimmy V Classic since rising to the top of college basketball under head coach Todd Golden. The matchup offers an early-season measuring stick for a reloaded Gators roster looking to defend its crown without guard Walter Clayton Jr., who declared for the NBA draft after leading the Orange and Blue to its first championship since 2007.

Follow us @GatorsWire on X, formerly known as Twitter, as well as Bluesky, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida Gators news, notes and opinions.Facing UConn early provides a valuable opportunity to test rotations, build chemistry and solidify the Gators’ standing in the landscape of college basketball. This game serves as a chance for the Gators to reinforce their identity as one of the sport’s premier programs.

The Gators own just two wins in seven tries against the Huskies all-time, dating back to 1994 when they earned the first victory of the series. Tip-off time and TV details will be announced at a later date.

Florida basketball is set to face the UConn Huskies in the 2025 Jimmy V Classic at Madison Square Garden on Dec. 9, according to a report from CBS Sports’ Jon Rothstein. The matchup marks the second meeting between the two programs in 2025 after the Gators knocked off the two-time defending national champions in the NCAA Tournament.