Trump honors Florida Gators basketball champions at the White House
- The Florida Gators won the NCAA championship game with a final score of 65-63 against Houston.
- During the White House ceremony, President Trump praised the team's resilience and dedicated fans.
- The event celebrated the Gators' legacy as a leading athletic program with multiple NCAA titles across sports.
On a Wednesday in May 2025, President Donald Trump hosted the Florida Gators, the 2025 NCAA basketball champions, at the White House to celebrate their victory. The Gators, who had a remarkable season with a record of 36-4, faced the Houston team in a tense championship game where they made a stunning comeback to win 65-63. During the ceremony, Trump recounted key moments from the game, highlighting the team's resilience as they overcame a 12-point deficit and secured their third NCAA title in basketball. The Gators are notable for being the only school to achieve championships in both basketball and football. The White House event was attended by notable figures from Florida, including Attorney General Pam Bondi and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who expressed their pride in the Gators' achievements. Additionally, Florida Senators Rick Scott and Ashley Moody were present, alongside former Florida football star Tim Tebow, who received special praise from Trump. The president acknowledged the Gators' coach, Todd Golden, as a young and skilled leader, and was presented with an autographed basketball and jersey as a memento of the occasion. The gathering was filled with excitement, as a substantial crowd of Florida Gators fans filled the State Room, making the atmosphere reminiscent of a concert rather than a formal event at the White House. Attendees shared their admiration for Trump, describing him as a rockstar figure who engaged well with the crowd and knew how to captivate the attendees. Trump's lighthearted jokes and ability to connect with the people made the ceremony enjoyable, as the Gators basked in their hard-earned recognition. The event served as a testament to the strong culture of college athletics in the United States and demonstrated how sports can unite communities. While President Joe Biden had previously held a joint ceremony for the NCAA basketball champions, the event honoring the Florida Gators was notably singular in its celebration of a winning team. The visit reinforced the Gators' legacy within college sports, adding another chapter to their ongoing success story and providing a memorable experience for players, fans, and officials alike.