WATCH: Colin Castleton denies the shot in crunch time

One of the biggest reasons the game got extended into overtimne was a clutch defensive play by center Colin Castleton with a huge block.

Florida’s first-round game against Virginia Tech has been a tight one which after 40 minutes of back-and-forth between the two teams, the two teams headed into overtime all knotted up.

One of the biggest reasons the game got extended into the extra period was a clutch defensive play by center Colin Castleton with a little more than a minute left to play to deny the Hokies a shot at the rim. Off a high pick-and-roll play, VT guard Tyece Radford drove hard to the rim looking for a dunk over the 6-foot-11-inch transfer from Michigan.

He was denied.

The block helped the Gators maintain the edge as the game came down to the free-throw line in the final minute. Hopefully, the effort was enough for Florida to eventually outlast Virginia Tech and give them a shot at the Ohio State Buckeyes in the second round on Sunday.

Fun facts for Florida vs Virginia Tech in the 2021 NCAA Tournament

Betting odds for Florida vs Virginia Tech NCAA Tournament Round 1, per BetMGM

Everything you need to know for Florida vs Virginia Tech in the NCAA Tournament


Brackets. Are. BACK.

It’s that time again – when dunks, brackets and buzzer-beaters inspire widespread incidents of March Madness. Get the jump on your friends by filling out your selections now!

In between all the games, mobile users can play USA TODAY Sports’ Couchketball virtual hoops challenge – the interactive basketball game where your skills determine the outcome.

[listicle id=38296]

[listicle id=38290]

[listicle id=38181]