Florida Women’s Basketball’s SEC Tournament Bid Ends vs. Oklahoma
Oklahoma pulled away in the third quarter Thursday afternoon, defeating Florida 84-62 to end the Gators’ run in the SEC Women’s Basketball Tournament in Greenville, South Carolina.
Florida trailed by just two points at halftime after matching Oklahoma basket for basket through the opening two quarters. Sophomore forward Me’Arah O’Neal helped keep the Gators within reach early, knocking down two three-pointers in the first quarter as Florida pushed back against the Sooners’ early lead.
Sophomore guard Liv McGill once again led Florida offensively. McGill finished with 28 points, extending her program single-season scoring record and recording her 30th double-figure performance of the season. She consistently attacked the basket and earned trips to the free-throw line, helping the Gators stay close during the first half.
The game shifted quickly after halftime.
Oklahoma opened the third quarter on a 10-0 run and outscored Florida 27-7 in the period to create separation. The Sooners maintained that momentum through the final quarter to secure the victory.
McGill briefly left the game after drawing a blocking foul and suffering a right-arm injury but returned to the floor and continued attacking the basket. O’Neal also provided an early spark for Florida, helping stabilize the offense during Oklahoma’s first-quarter surge.
Oklahoma finished the game shooting 43.1% from the field and held advantages in several key statistical categories. The Sooners outscored Florida 48-32 in the paint and outrebounded the Gators 47-39, including a 17-10 edge on the offensive glass. Florida committed 24 turnovers, which Oklahoma converted into 23 points.
Despite the loss, Florida reflected on the growth it showed throughout the season.
“I’m extremely proud of our team and the growth that we’ve had over the course of the season,” coach Kelly Rae Finley said. “I’m excited to see what’s next for us.”
McGill echoed that sentiment.
“Even though we fell short tonight, that’s what it takes to be a connected team,” McGill said. “Everybody sacrificed and poured in, and I’m proud of the growth from start to finish.”
Category: Feature Sports News, Gators Women's Basketball, Uncategorized
