Gators show off a renewed team chemistry in a huge win
Controversy or not, the Florida Gators women’s basketball season is underway and the team looks happy to be back on the court.
The hardwood in Exactech Arena was shining on Friday night when the interim head coach Kelly Rae Finley and the Gators welcomed Flagler College for an exhibition matchup. The game was one-sided from the opening tip and the Gators showed a lot of promise beating Flagler by a 101-56 score.
The first half was dominated by the Gators who carried a 51-30 lead going into the break and the team found a burst in the third quarter to drive a 21-0 run.
UF freshman Alberte Rimdal made a flashing debut going 4-6 and putting 19 total points on the floor. The Denmark native found a sweet spot in the corners to let it fly and lit up the paint with impressive finishes at the net. Rimdal came off the bench in both halves but outgunned everyone on the court
The Wyche sisters, freshmen Tatyana and Taliyah, were perfect from the field combining to go 8-8. Taliyah was the more dominant of the two, especially in the paint, finding the net seven times.
Senior guard Zippy Broughton got the start and dominated the paint to compile 16 points in four quarters. Broughton found a teammate to tally an assist and went one-for-one at the free throw line.
A renewed team chemistry was displayed throughout the game on the court and on the Florida bench. After every three-pointer or powerful block, the bench would be the first to celebrate and cheer on their teammates. Broughton says the team’s relationship is only getting stronger.
“The team chemistry is always improving,” Broughton said. “In practice, Kelly’s always trying to mix it up and see who gels together the best.”
The only bright light for the Saints was senior guard Jazina Mathis who penetrated the Florida defense to place 13 points on the board despite going 2-12 from the floor. Most of Mathis’ baskets were earned from the foul line.
Florida’s season opener will be back at the O’Dome on Tuesday afternoon. The Gators will host Georgia State and the game will be broadcast on SEC Network+.