
Colgate Raiders

Florida Gators
Highlights
Preview
GAINESVILLE, Fla. (Interstat) ā The Florida Gators look to carry momentum from a dominant win into their final non-conference test when they host the Colgate Raiders on Sunday, Dec. 21, at the OāConnell Center. Florida (7-4) is coming off a 102-61 rout of Saint Francis (Pa.) on Wednesday, a game in which the Gators shot 56% from the field and had six players score in double figures. The Gators have won two straight since a narrow 77-73 loss at then-Connecticut on Dec. 9. A key to Floridaās recent form has been the versatile play of forward Alex Condon. Over his last five games, Condon is averaging 10.6 points, 5.4 assists and 1.6 blocks, showcasing an ability to impact the game beyond scoring. In the win over Saint Francis, he posted 14 points, five assists and three blocks in just 24 minutes. Colgate (6-5) enters after a 10-day break following an 85-77 road loss at Saint Bonaventure on Dec. 10. The Raiders have shown resilience, winning four of their last six, but have struggled away from home with a 2-4 record in true road games. The Raiders are led by dynamic guard Jalen Cox, who is coming off a career-high 26-point, seven-assist performance in the loss to the Bonnies. Over his last three games against Division I competition, Cox is averaging 16.7 points and 6.7 assists while playing nearly 37 minutes per contest. His backcourt pairing with Andrew Alekseyenko, who scored 25 against Saint Bonaventure, provides a potent offensive challenge. Historically, this matchup favors the power conference host, but Colgate is a perennial NCAA Tournament team from the Patriot League known for disciplined play. Florida will need to leverage its size and athletic advantage inside, where Condon and Rueben Chinyelu (12 points vs. Saint Francis) operate, to counter Colgateās guard-oriented attack. This game serves as a final tune-up before both teams enter their conference schedules. Florida opens Southeastern Conference play at Missouri on Jan. 3, while Colgate begins Patriot League action at Lafayette on Dec. 31. Tip-off is scheduled for noon EST Sunday at the OāConnell Center.