In a thrilling NCAA Tournament West Region semifinal, Florida’s Todd Golden and Maryland’s Derik Queen are set to clash Thursday night at Chase Center, with both aiming to elevate their teams to the next level. The Gators, seeded first and boasting a 32-4 record, face the No. 4 Terrapins, who are 27-8. For Golden, this game is not just another opportunity for advancement but a sentimental return to familiar grounds. He served as the head coach at the University of San Francisco from 2019 to 2022, where he led the Dons to their first NCAA Tournament appearance in 24 years in his final season. “It’s kind of icing on the cake to be able to go out there,” Golden shared, reflecting on the chance to return to the West Coast.
But Golden’s focus is clear: guiding the Gators back to college basketball’s pinnacle. Florida hasn’t reached the Final Four since 2014, and Golden is determined to change that. After their thrilling 77-75 victory over two-time defending champions UConn, Golden said, “Being in the Sweet 16 is a great step in the right direction.” The Gators will lean heavily on their star guard, Walter Clayton Jr., who has been pivotal all season. Clayton, averaging 17.9 points and 4.2 assists, erupted for 23 points against UConn, including two clutch three-pointers in the final moments. His leadership is crucial as Florida looks to secure a spot in the Elite Eight.
Meanwhile, Maryland is riding high on the talents of freshman phenom Derik Queen, the Big Ten Freshman of the Year. Queen, who has emerged as an NBA lottery prospect, delivered a dramatic performance in their 72-71 win over Colorado State, hitting a nearly impossible fadeaway shot with the game on the line. Queen, who averages 16.2 points and 9.1 rebounds per game, has earned the trust of his teammates with both his skills and his infectious personality. Maryland head coach Kevin Willard praises Queen for his attitude, saying, “He’s always in a good mood, always a great teammate…a generational talent and a generational kid.”
Queen’s drive and competitive spirit were evident when he demanded the ball in the final moments of the game. His forceful determination to take control and deliver in high-pressure moments makes him a powerful asset for the Terrapins, who are aiming for their first Elite Eight appearance since 2016 and their first since their 2002 national championship.
As these two teams meet on Thursday night, the stakes couldn’t be higher, with both Golden and Queen leading their squads toward college basketball glory.
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