Previewing Florida basketball’s matchup with in-state rival Florida State

After opening the season with a 74-61 win over Elon, the Gators men’s basketball team faces its first real test of the season in No. 20 Florida State Sunday.

The in-state rivalry will be rekindled on the hardwood before the two schools match up on the gridiron to close out the college football season, and the Seminoles have had the upper hand lately. FSU has won the last seven matchups between these two, dating back to 2014. Both teams have some new faces on the roster after losing players to the NBA, but FSU is thought to be the superior team.

Last year’s matchup was of course marred by the collapse and hospitalization of Gators forward Keyontae Johnson. Coach Key will be on the sidelines for this one as he continues to recover and help the team however he can.

The Gators will have the home-court advantage at the O’Connell Center in Gainesville. FSU handled Penn at home in its season opener, but four of the Seminoles’ five starters might not score double-digit points in a more hostile environment.

If Florida is going to snap FSU’s streak this year, the Gators will need Colin Castleton and Myreon Jones to continue scoring. Anthony Duruji‘s presence on the boards would also go a long way against Florida State.

The press notes give a good look at the possible starters for both Florida and Florida State on Sunday.

Projected Starting Lineup: FLORIDA

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