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Florida Basketball Hour

Florida Basketball Hour

By Neil Blackmon and Eric Fawcett

Talking Florida Gators Basketball with weekly guests, features, game analysis and more. Giving a program that’s become a national power the attention it deserves. Powered by The Gatorverse.
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Currently playing episode

The Annual Over/Under and Season Predictions Show, featuring Jake Winderman, CBS Sports

Florida Basketball Hour Oct 25, 2022

00:00
01:36:57
The Blueprint: NCAA Heartbreak ends Florida's season; Portal SZN Begins

The Blueprint: NCAA Heartbreak ends Florida's season; Portal SZN Begins

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down Florida's 102-100 loss to Colorado in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.

Yes, the referees were abysmal.

Yes, Florida was bad on defense.

Yes, Walter Clayton was a win away from being immortal.

Yes, it was a good season.

But it left us all wanting a little more...

Plus, an overview of Florida's portal needs, and a 10,000 foot view of the program after Todd Golden's second season in Gainesville.

Mar 28, 202401:08:54
Selection Sunday: Gators in-- but a 7 Seed?

Selection Sunday: Gators in-- but a 7 Seed?

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) break down Florida's 7 seed on Selection Sunday. Why a 7 seed was wrong, but could work in Florida's favor. Plus, previews of Florida's opening round matchup, which will be against the First Four winner of Colorado/Boise State.

The guys also recap Florida's tough SEC Championship Game loss to Auburn.

Finally, a peek ahead to why a second round matchup with Marquette might favor the Gators.


Mar 18, 202401:12:51
The Denzel Aberdeen Game: SEC Championship Preview

The Denzel Aberdeen Game: SEC Championship Preview

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) breakdown Florida's epic comeback win over Texas A&M in the SEC Tournament semifinals.

How Denzel Aberdeen and Alex Condon keyed the Gators rally against the Aggies-- and why Florida's defense won the day early in the second half.

Plus, our preview of the SEC Championship Game, against an Auburn team with an exceptional frontcourt and depth-- but no elite talent-- at guard.

Mar 17, 202443:08
Hot Chicken and Hoops: SEC Tournament Friday

Hot Chicken and Hoops: SEC Tournament Friday

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down Florida's 85-80 SEC Tournament win over Georgia. Why the 11th straight win over Georgia is always the toughest, and what to expect in Florida's SEC quarterfinal against Alabama.


Plus, bracketology, SEC Tournament thoughts, Nashville food, and much more...

Mar 15, 202401:02:41
"Leave No Doubt": Sr. Night rout of Alabama; Brackets Chatter, Vandy Preview

"Leave No Doubt": Sr. Night rout of Alabama; Brackets Chatter, Vandy Preview

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) breakdown Florida's 105-87 win over No. 16 Alabama.

All the takeaways from a special Senior Night in the O'Dome.

Plus, why Florida's offensive adjustments-- and its best defensive game all season-- were encouraging long term.

Next- a preview of Florida's trip to Vanderbilt.

Finally, the guys talk brackets, Florida's position in bracketology, and what to make of Florida's resume as the season hits Championship Week.

Mar 08, 202401:08:38
Zoned Out: Gators fall at South Carolina; Alabama rematch next on Senior Night

Zoned Out: Gators fall at South Carolina; Alabama rematch next on Senior Night

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down Florida's 82-76 loss at . 18 South Carolina. Why Florida struggled with the Gamecocks zone, and how Florida could have won the game regardless..

Plus, a big preview of Florida's Senior Night game against Alabama. The first game was a classic. Will the Gators exact some vengeance-- and grab a huge win in the process?

Mar 04, 202401:04:50
Win 20! Plus-- A Seed line opportunity at South Carolina

Win 20! Plus-- A Seed line opportunity at South Carolina

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) on Florida's 20th win over the season-- a strange, grind it out game against Missouri. Other topics discussed include Florida's return to an offensive rebounding identity, the value of turnover percentage, and what to make of Riley Kugel's decreased usage.

Finally, a preview of Florida's road game and Quad 1 opportunity at No. 18 South Carolina. What makes the Gamecocks "hard to guard", and why this is the type of contrast of styles game that could define the Gators ceiling in March.

Feb 29, 202401:07:51
Bama heartache, headache: Vandy Preview

Bama heartache, headache: Vandy Preview

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Brandon Carroll (Sports Illustrated) team up to break down Florida's heartbreaking overtime loss at No. 13 Alabama. How Florida's guards shined, but the Gators came up just short.

Plus, a preview of Florida's sold out weekend home game against Vanderbilt.

Feb 23, 202456:17
Gators sweep UGA; No. 13 Bama Preview

Gators sweep UGA; No. 13 Bama Preview

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) break down Florida's 88-82 win in Athens.

How good offense, and Thomas Haugh's huge lift off the bench won Florida its 10th game in a row over Georgia.

The guys also break down No. 13 Alabama. Why Mark Sears is Neil's pick for SEC Player of the Year; why Eric loves Alabama's identity as a program; and much more.

Feb 19, 202450:39
In the Zone? Gators survive LSU; Georgia rematch awaits

In the Zone? Gators survive LSU; Georgia rematch awaits

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) joins Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) to break down Florida's 82-80 win over LSU. What goes wrong when the Gators face a zone defense, and what the Gators might do to remedy it.


Plus, why Todd Golden may want to buck industry trends using his timeouts.


Finally, Florida visits Georgia this weekend. Why this game will test Florida's culture-- and how a win could give the Gators a shot at an SEC Championship.

Feb 16, 202401:09:40
House of Horrors: Gators rout No. 12 Auburn, LSU preview

House of Horrors: Gators rout No. 12 Auburn, LSU preview

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) break down Florida's 81-65 rout of No. 12 Auburn on Saturday in the O'Dome.

Why Florida's guards stole the show, Florida's frontcourt was up for the challenge, and the continued maturation of Riley Kugel.

Plus, a preview of an improved LSU, who visits Gainesville on Tuesday night. Why has LSU struggled under Matt McMahon? Will LSU's transition game push Florida? Thoughts on a dangerous spot for the Gators, and more.

Feb 11, 202401:22:11
"No Sleep Like Win at Rupp Sleep"; Jacob Rudner Guests; Texas A&M Preview

"No Sleep Like Win at Rupp Sleep"; Jacob Rudner Guests; Texas A&M Preview

Jacob Rudner (247 Sports) joins Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) to break down Florida's 94-91 overtime win at No. 10 Kentucky on Wednesday night. From Walter Clayton Jr.'s shot to Thomas Haugh's help defense, the guys discuss all aspects of a signature win for Todd Golden and Florida.

Plus, why the work to be an NCAA Tournament team is not done, and how the Gators match up with a quality Texas A&M squad on Saturday in College Station.

Feb 01, 202447:48
Gators Best Blanco; Graham Hall Guests - Rupp Rematch

Gators Best Blanco; Graham Hall Guests - Rupp Rematch

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) is joined by Graham Hall (247 Sports) to talk Florida's 102-98 overtime win over Georgia. Why this Florida offense is humming, and what can Florida fix on defense? Plus, what is going right-- and wrong-- with Riley Kugel's game this season.


Plus, a big Kentucky preview as Florida looks to avoid being swept by their rival for the third consecutive season.

Jan 31, 202454:08
Gators thump Miss State; Kevin Brockway joins, Blanco Beckons

Gators thump Miss State; Kevin Brockway joins, Blanco Beckons

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) is joined by Kevin Brockway of the Gainesville Sun to break down Florida's 79-70 résumé building win over Mississippi State.


Kevin Brockway breaks down how Florida's defense on Tolu Smith led the way, and talks the improvement of the Gators on both sides of the ball.


Plus, how Florida's hedge busting offense impressed Neil.


Finally, a preview of the Georgia game, with Mike White bringing the best Georgia team in 2 decades into a sold out O'Dome.

Jan 26, 202449:30
Gators win at Missouri; Huge game with Miss State next

Gators win at Missouri; Huge game with Miss State next

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down Florida's road win at Mizzou. Why this was Florida's most complete defensive performance of the year, why Micah Handlogten can build on this performance, and why Riley Kugel's improved play continued in CoMo.

Plus, Tolu Smith and Mississippi State will test Florida physically. Can the Gators meet the challenge and grab their biggest win of the year?

Jan 21, 202401:09:00
A Tale of Two Blowouts: Arkansas W, Tennessee L, Must Win at Mizzou

A Tale of Two Blowouts: Arkansas W, Tennessee L, Must Win at Mizzou

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) discuss two blowouts: a win over Arkansas and a loss at Tennessee. What did we learn from 2 lopsided games?

Plus, thoughts on Florida's lack of frontcourt physicality, the wonderful skill of Walter Clayton Jr., the improvement of Denzel Aberdeen, and plenty of content to preview a must-win road game at Missouri...

Jan 18, 202401:02:31
Gators humbled at Ole Miss; Desperate Arkansas awaits

Gators humbled at Ole Miss; Desperate Arkansas awaits

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) break down Florida's loss at Ole Miss.

What went wrong for the Gators-- and how Florida might approach fixing things defensively.

Plus, what ails Riley Kugel, and should he be given the chance to play through the slump? And should Florida consider playing 4 around 1 and abandoning the 2 big setup at times?


Finally, an Arkansas preview. Why a desperate Hogs team has 2 guards in Tramon Mark and Devo Davis who can cause Florida problems-- and why Florida's frontcourt advantage must win the day.



Jan 12, 202401:05:34
Kentucky Heartbreaker; Ole Miss Preview

Kentucky Heartbreaker; Ole Miss Preview

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down a heartbreaking Florida loss to No. 6 Kentucky in Gainesville. What went wrong for the Gators in the closing 5 minutes, and why this team hasn't yet gotten over the hump in huge games.


Plus, a preview of Florida's trip to Ole Miss, where a vastly improved Rebels team under new- and controversial- head coach Chris Beard awaits.

Jan 08, 202401:09:52
Eric Talking Hoops with Tyrese Samuel

Eric Talking Hoops with Tyrese Samuel

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) sat down with fellow Canadian Tyrese Samuel to talk hoops and more over the holidays. Samuel, who is playing like an All-SEC caliber big man this season, offered plenty of insight and thoughts in a fun chat. Be sure to listen-- and support Florida Victorious and the NIL space.

Jan 06, 202417:39
Unbeaten in December, Gators open SEC play with rival Kentucky

Unbeaten in December, Gators open SEC play with rival Kentucky

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) discuss Florida's unbeaten December and preview Florida's upcoming tilt at home against No. 6 Kentucky.


Why this Kentucky team is so much better on offense, grading Florida's non-conference performance, and outlining the keys to a Florida win over Kentucky.

Jan 04, 202401:01:48
Jumpman Instant Classic: Gators beat Michigan; Grambling preview

Jumpman Instant Classic: Gators beat Michigan; Grambling preview

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down Florida's gritty win over Michigan in the Jumpman Invitational. How Florida won, and a chat about:
- Alex Condon's remarkable development
- Zyon Pullin as the 6th man and why it works
- Riley Kugel's offensive issues
- Riley Kugel's excellent defense.

Plus, a preview of Florida's buy games with Grambling and Quinnipiac.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all our listeners!
Dec 22, 202357:51
Gators survive East Carolina; Jumpman Invitational (Michigan) Preview

Gators survive East Carolina; Jumpman Invitational (Michigan) Preview

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) break down Florida's narrow win over East Carolina in Lakeland. What to make of Florida's offensive issues and Riley Kugel and Micah Handlogten sitting down the stretch.


At minute 40: a breakdown of Florida's immense tilt with Michigan in a battle of 2 teams desperate for signature wins. Will the Gators finally win 1 of these neutral site games in Charlotte? Plus, Neil talks about the charitable purpose behind Jumpman hoops.

Dec 15, 202301:10:15
ECU Preview; Are we concerned about Florida defensively?

ECU Preview; Are we concerned about Florida defensively?

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down Florida's win over Richmond in the Orange Bowl Classic and preview Florida's tilt in Lakeland on Thursday night against a sneaky good East Carolina team.

Plus, is it time to be concerned about Florida defensively? Why the Gators should get better on defense-- and why the team's ability to reach its lofty ceiling depends on that improvement.

Dec 14, 202301:06:03
Gators fall to Wake Forest and Baylor; Merrimack Preview

Gators fall to Wake Forest and Baylor; Merrimack Preview

Jacob Rudner (247 Sports) joins the show to discuss Florida's back-to-back losses to Baylor and Wake Forest. What can Florida do to improve, and what the long term impact is of missing out on these résumé opportunities. Plus, a preview of Florida's home tilt with Merrimack, one of college basketball's funkiest teams.

Dec 05, 202341:08
Gators rout Noles; Big résumé week in Brooklyn! Feast Week NIT preview

Gators rout Noles; Big résumé week in Brooklyn! Feast Week NIT preview

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) break down Florida's rout of rival Florida State. How the Gators won their 3rd straight over FSU, and why Zyon Pullin was the difference in his debut.

Plus, a huge preview of the Feast Week NIT, where the Gators will compete in Brooklyn this week.


Why Pitt is a tough matchup, and one of the most important games Florida will play this year. Plus, a look at Baylor and Oregon State, who are lined up to play the Gators in game 2 at the Barclays Center.

Nov 20, 202359:51
Gators lose tough one to Virginia; FAMU, Florida State preview

Gators lose tough one to Virginia; FAMU, Florida State preview

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down a tough loss to Virginia in Charlotte. Why turnovers did Florida in-- and why there were encouraging signs, even in defeat.


Plus, a look at FAMU, who comes to Gainesville Tuesday, and a big preview of Friday night's rivalry game in Gainesville against Florida State. The FSU game will be the debut of Florida senior Zyon Pullin.


As always, Florida Basketball is brought to you by the Gataverse. To join and get incredible opportunities to meet athletes and engage with Gator heroes all in a system designed to work the way NIL was intended, visit gataverse.io.



Nov 12, 202301:08:58
Kugel, bigs shine in Opening Night Romp; Virginia Preview

Kugel, bigs shine in Opening Night Romp; Virginia Preview

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) break down Florida's opening night rout of Loyola-Maryland. Why the bigs were so impressive, Riley Kugel's improved game, and other thoughts on a great opening night.


Plus, at minute 30- the guys preview a monstrous game against one of the nation's best programs in Virginia.

Nov 09, 202301:02:04
2023-24 Season preview: The over-under show

2023-24 Season preview: The over-under show

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) are joined by Jake Winderman (CBS Sports) to preview the 2023-24 Florida Gators basketball season.


As usual, this show features "Over/Unders" set by Jake and discussed on the show. Everything from Florida's leading scorers, biggest wins, best transfer, and NCAA Tournament hopes is discussed along with segments on the Florida bench, offensive efficiency, and much, much more.

It's time for Gators basketball-- and for the 6th consecutive year, Florida Basketball Hour has you covered.

Nov 06, 202301:53:07
Gators starting 5, SEC Media Days chatter

Gators starting 5, SEC Media Days chatter

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down SEC Media Days. Plus, a look at Florida's starting 5 as they ready for scrimmages and the start of the regular season. Finally, what to expect from Florida's potential breakout star, Riley Kugel.

Oct 20, 202301:12:36
Edge Jarvis Retires; Talent acquisition under Todd Golden

Edge Jarvis Retires; Talent acquisition under Todd Golden

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) discuss the sudden retirement of Edge Jarvis, the Yale transfer expected to compete to start for the Gators in 2023-24. Why this hurts Florida's frontcourt in more ways than just "depth", and how it could change Florida's outlook in 2023-24. Plus, why the Zyon Pullin three-game suspension matters, and a discussion about summer league basketball for college players and why Portsmouth type events might be inevitable in the near future. Finally, the guys break down recruiting news, with the postponement of Sammie Yeanay's visit, the announcement that 5 star big man Jayden Quaintance will visit UF next week, and what the long game is as Florida continues to take big swings at star power on the recruiting trail.


Florida Basketball Hour is brought to you by The Gataverse-- to learn more about Gataverse's custom made NIL experience, visit gataverse.io.

Oct 06, 202301:13:39
Season 6, Episode 1: Here's to another new beginning as Florida opens practice

Season 6, Episode 1: Here's to another new beginning as Florida opens practice

Florida Basketball Hour kicks off Season 6. On the agenda: Florida opens practice, Todd Golden's opening press conference, recruiting updates, Alex Condon buzz, and what to expect from Florida's star, Riley Kugel. Plus, the guys kick a fun College Basketball Almanac poll of coaches back and forth, including discussions about the league's player of the year, the surprise team, why it's so hard to play against Tennessee, and much more.


Florida Basketball Hour is sponsored by the Gataverse. Gataverse offers an innovative approach to NIL that connects Fans, Athletes, and Merchants with digitial collectibles and player collectibles to verify community membership and grant access to exclusive privileges, VIP events, and memberships. Best of all? Gataverse is NIL the way it is supposed to work: putting the lion's share of money in the pockets of student-athletes. To learn more and join, visit gataverse.io.

Sep 30, 202301:07:54
Interview with Florida big man Tyrese Samuel

Interview with Florida big man Tyrese Samuel

FBH interviews Florida big man Tyrese Samuel ahead of the 2023-2024 season. Why the Gators' forward picked Florida, what he learned in his time at Seton Hall and playing in the Big East, his basketball journey that took him from Canada to Maryland, and beyond, and his goals for the 2023-2024 campaign. Plus, some fun with Tyrese about who has the most drip on the Gators, his favorite places to play why he loved Swamp Kings and more.


Special thanks to Florida Victorious for helping make Tyrese available. Support other Gators athletes and NIL efforts at https://floridavictorious.com/.


Sep 02, 202317:15
Gators add to Staff; Analytics Deep Dive into key roster battles

Gators add to Staff; Analytics Deep Dive into key roster battles

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) discuss Florida's new staff addition, John Andrzejek, who joins Florida from Kyle Smith's staff at Washington State. Why Coach Andrzejek is a great fit in Gainesville, and how it will benefit Florida's offense especially in 2023-24. Taurean Green's internal promotion is also discussed.

Then, at minute 17, the guys begin a deep dive into some team and individual analytics. What key statistics say about the 2023-24 Gators and key roster battles. Among the discussion points are the backcourt time share and production between Zyon Pullin and Walter Clayton, the frontcourt battle between Micah Handlogten and Tyrese Samuel, and why Edge Jarvis will be a huge contributor, even if he's somewhat forgotten in "talking season."

Aug 26, 202301:07:38
The Schedule Show: Breaking down the Gators non-conference slate; Riley Kugel at the Nike Academy

The Schedule Show: Breaking down the Gators non-conference slate; Riley Kugel at the Nike Academy

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) break down Florida's non-conference slate. It's a smart schedule, but is it a top 10 slate? The guys discuss that and break down the trap games, the value of neutral floor opportunities, "must wins," and more.

Plus, Riley Kugel shines at the Nike Academy, recruiting, and "first look" at Feast Week tournaments.

Aug 13, 202301:24:39
FBH Summer Reunion: portal closes, TBT drama, talking season begins

FBH Summer Reunion: portal closes, TBT drama, talking season begins

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down Florida's busy summer. Where does Florida's transfer portal class rank? FBH breaks it down.


Plus, what Florida's newest international roster spot adds to the team, the loss of John Bol and why it doesn't matter much, 2024 recruiting updates, and much more.


Finally, Florida was 1 and done at the TBT, but it was fun seeing Corey Brewer shine. Why we hope this is just the beginning for Gataverse TBT teams.

Aug 02, 202301:17:13
Golden pulls Pullin; Top-ranked transfer class complete; John Bol Commits

Golden pulls Pullin; Top-ranked transfer class complete; John Bol Commits

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) team up to discuss the commitment of Zyon Pullin, the No 2 ranked player remaining in the portal, to UF. What Pullin's commitment means for Florida's ceiling, why he might be best as a 6th man, and much more. Plus, Julian Rishwain isn't a 6th man! But he is a no-risk take. Finally, a lengthy chat about John Bol and recruiting, and why the commitment is so vital in a game about markets.


Plus, Omaha!! The boys talk baseball and jello shots.

Jun 14, 202301:10:18
Where the Gators roster stands as summer opens-- Plus, listener questions!

Where the Gators roster stands as summer opens-- Plus, listener questions!

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) breakdown Florida's roster to date. Will Florida acquire the additional guard this roster needs? A breakdown of targets Jaylen Murray and Zyon Pullin, among others.

Plus, all your listener questions, including a fun closing discussion of the best glue guys in Gator history.

May 19, 202301:20:29
Tyrese Samuel picks Florida; Gators Roster taking shape- Jacob Rudner joins

Tyrese Samuel picks Florida; Gators Roster taking shape- Jacob Rudner joins

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) talk Florida Gators basketball.


On this episode, Jacob Rudner (Swamp 247) joins the show to give insider information on the Samuel commitment and discuss Florida's roster for the 2023-24 season, which is taking shape and seems poised for a NCAA Tournament run. Jacob Rudner also discusses why he's high on the Florida frontcourt, Florida's recruiting targets, the pursuit of Tylor Perry of North Texas and much more in a jam packed episode.

Apr 21, 202301:06:56
Riley Kugel Returns and the Gators hit it big in the portal with Walter Clayton Jr., Micah Handlogten

Riley Kugel Returns and the Gators hit it big in the portal with Walter Clayton Jr., Micah Handlogten

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) on the return to Florida of star freshman Riley Kugel. Why Kugel's return was the biggest win for Todd Golden yet, and what it means as Florida builds its 2023-24 roster.

Plus, Florida has Gael-winds behind their back in the portal, thanks to the commitment of Iona guard Walter Clayton Jr.. Why the MAAC player of the year is a ceiling-raiser for UF. Plus, Micah Handlogten gives UF another talented big: what to expect from the Sun Belt Freshman of the Year in Gainesville next season.

Finally, a breakdown on the signing of Alex Condon and the case for Tyrese Samuel being the most important player on Florida's portal list.

This and more on a jam packed episode...



Apr 13, 202301:10:32
Bonus Episode: Gator Great Mike Miller

Bonus Episode: Gator Great Mike Miller

Neil Blackmon of Saturday Down South chatted with Gators Great Mike Miller about the shot that changed Florida basketball, how hard it is to win in March, why young players should take a chance on trusting young coaches, his NBA experience, and more. Plus, hear Mike Miller's thoughts on the Final Four.

Apr 04, 202312:51
Gators go portaling- Edge Jarvis commits; More Patreon Questions; Final Four preview

Gators go portaling- Edge Jarvis commits; More Patreon Questions; Final Four preview

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) discuss Florida's first commitment from the transfer portal- Yale forward EJ Jarvis. What to expect from the All-Ivy League forward, and why this is a good start for the Gators as they build a 2023-24 roster.

The guys also answer additional portal questions, including the difference analytically between this year's 16-17 Florida team and Mike White's final group. Also discussed? A few of Florida's current transfer portal targets, and an optimistic update on Riley Kugel's future.

Finally, the guys break down the Final Four. Why Miami-UConn might be the national title game a round early, and why Florida Atlantic should win at least one more time.

Apr 01, 202301:09:58
The Patreon Listener Question Episode: From the first round NIT exit to the portal, FBH answers all your subscriber questions

The Patreon Listener Question Episode: From the first round NIT exit to the portal, FBH answers all your subscriber questions

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down Florida's loss to UCF in the NIT. What went wrong and how to evaluate that game in the grand scheme of Todd Golden's first season. Plus, we answer questions submitted by our Patreon subscribers. These questions are outstanding, from how to build a roster in modern basketball to what types of offenses we prefer or would run at the Power 6 level to potential destinations for Gators in the transfer portal, we enjoyed answering and interacting with our subscribers. Enjoy!

Mar 21, 202301:06:17
Music City Heartache: Gators fall in OT to Miss State at SEC Tournament

Music City Heartache: Gators fall in OT to Miss State at SEC Tournament

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) break down Florida's heartbreaking 69-68 overtime loss to Mississippi State at the SEC Tournament. What went wrong on the final Miss State possession, Florida's final shot, and why the Gators stagnant offense and bad free throw shooting nearly doomed the team before a stirring set of comebacks. Plus, is it time to reevaluate Alex Fudge and Kowacie Reeves? Finally, the guys break down Florida's NIT prospects, and praise Coach Golden for his competitiveness and desire to compete at the NIT. 

Mar 10, 202354:20
Senior Night Win over LSU; SEC Tournament Preview

Senior Night Win over LSU; SEC Tournament Preview

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down Florida's Senior Night win over LSU. How Todd Golden's switch to the press changed the game, along with the bench contributions of Kowacie Reeves and Niels Lane. Plus, the continued star turn of Riley Kugel-- breaking down his prospects for next season. The guys also pay tribute to Kyle Lofton and break down a spectacular offensive season for Will Richard. 

At minute 34, the guys break down Florida's SEC Tournament matchup with Miss State. Can the Gators contain State's powerful interior play without Colin Castleton? Will Riley Kugel lift the Gators past the school he committed to initially? Who is more motivated? A bubble Miss State team or a hungry group of Gators chasing an automatic bid? 

Finally, the guys discuss Florida's All-SEC honorees, including First-Team All-SEC honoree Colin Castleton.

Mar 07, 202358:58
Gators Sweep Mike White and the Dawgs; Senior Night preview

Gators Sweep Mike White and the Dawgs; Senior Night preview

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down Florida's road win at Georgia. How Myreon Jones, Will Richard, and Riley Kugel paced an 8th straight win over UGA. Plus, signs of life from the Gators defense, and the merits of playing smaller as the season heads down the final stretch. 

The guys also preview Senior Night against LSU, and break down the challenges presented by the Tigers talented big man, KJ Williams. 

Finally, the guys discuss each of the new SEC hires, the value in playing in the NIT, and much more. 

Mar 04, 202354:36
Kentucky sweeps Gators; Vanderbilt preview

Kentucky sweeps Gators; Vanderbilt preview

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) break down Kentucky's 82-74 win over the Gators on Wednesday night. How a brave effort from the Gators fell just short, and why Riley Kugel and Niels Lane gave Florida fans something to be excited about in defeat. 

Plus, a preview of the rematch with Liam Robbins and Vanderbilt, as the Commodores go for their first season sweep of the Gators since 2018-19. 

Finally, the guys discuss the dismissal of Kermit Davis at Ole Miss. How good a job is the Ole Miss job? Should Dusty May jump on the chance to coach Ole Miss if given the opportunity? This and more...

Feb 24, 202358:51
Jason Jitoboh joins FBH, Arkansas Wrap Kentucky Preview

Jason Jitoboh joins FBH, Arkansas Wrap Kentucky Preview

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) break down Florida's loss at Arkansas. How an excellent first half turned into a disappointing second half and a brutal day defensively for the Gators. The guys also discuss Riley Kugel's tremendous growth and ceiling. 

Plus, Gator big man Jason Jitoboh joined the show to talk about his comeback from an eye-injury and why his basketball story isn't just an inspirational one. Jitoboh discusses his favorite thing about being a Gator, how he became the Gator with the most "drip", his touch as an offensive player, pick and roll defense and much more. 

Finally, the guys break down Florida's matchup with Kentucky. Why Kentucky's offense isn't as bad as analysts make out, what ails Kentucky defensively, and why the Gators can win. 

Feb 20, 202301:15:31
Forever a Gator: The Castleton Injury, Alex Klatsky on the Gatorverse and the NIL Space, Arkansas preview

Forever a Gator: The Castleton Injury, Alex Klatsky on the Gatorverse and the NIL Space, Arkansas preview

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) and Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) are joined by Florida guard Alex Klatsky to discuss the Gatorverse, a Florida Basketball Hour partner and an an exclusive community dedicated to connecting University of Florida fans and student-athletes. Members receive access to exclusive autographed collectibles, real life experiences, giveaways, VIP events and rewards while Athletes receive a majority of revenue from sales of their collectibles. Rafi Goldman also joins to discuss the Gatorverse and the NIL Space and the group discuss how the Gatorverse will help Florida basketball, its athletes and other Universitry of Florida athletes into the future. 

Eric and Neil also break down Florida's win over Ole Miss, dive into the ramifications of the Colin Castleton injury on the Gators season, and preview Florida's Quad 1 opportunity at Arkansas on Saturday. 

Feb 16, 202301:08:03
Tide Roll Gators; Vandy Preview; Why Florida's Hoops NIL ventures are promising

Tide Roll Gators; Vandy Preview; Why Florida's Hoops NIL ventures are promising

Neil W. Blackmon (Saturday Down South) and Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) discuss Alabama's rout of the Gators in Tuscaloosa. Will Florida squander a banner year from Colin Castleton and head to another NIT? What are Florida's NCAA Tournament hopes? Should we be concerned about Florida's backcourt after 2 tough games in succession?

At minute 31, the guys discuss Florida's NIL situation as it relates to basketball. Why you should be encouraged, whether it be the Gator Collective, other ventures, or big money boosters committed to winning on the hardwood. 

Finally, at minute 44, a preview of Florida's game against Vanderbilt in Gainesville on Saturday. The Liam Robbins-Castleton matchup is discussed, as is the challenge of containing a quality set of Vanderbilt guards. 

Feb 09, 202356:52
Rupp Rally falls short: Kentucky review, No. 2 Alabama awaits in Tuscaloosa

Rupp Rally falls short: Kentucky review, No. 2 Alabama awaits in Tuscaloosa

Eric Fawcett (Gator Country) is joined this week by Jacob Rudner and Graham Hall of 247 Sports to break down Florida's 72-67 loss at Rupp Arena to rival Kentucky. The trio also discuss Florida's final game in an epic 4 game gauntlet, which will see Florida play the No. 2 Alabama Crimson Tide in Tuscaloosa. The Tide are seeking to become just the third team in SEC history to finish a regular season 18-0 in league play. 

Feb 06, 202301:24:55