Prior to the commencement of the 2023–24 season, Florida basketball had a successful trip to Miami for its first closed preseason scrimmage.
The Florida Gators topped the Miami Hurricanes 91-89 in a back-and-forth affair at UM’s home gym.
Tyrese Samuel, a big man transfer from Seton Hall, added 19 points, while sophomore guard Riley Kugel led the Gators with 20 points. Iona transfer guard Walter Clayton Jr. dished 10 assists for UF.
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The win, albeit in preseason, was significant given Miami is ranked No. 13 in the Preseason USA Today Top 25 and considered a contender for an ACC title again this season. The Hurricanes return three starters from a team that reached the Final Four last season. Nijel Pack, one of the three returning starters, led Miami with 27 points.
The Gators, under second-year coach Todd Golden, added eight new scholarship transfers and freshmen during the offseason.
Florida will play its second closed scrimmage against Jacksonville before holding its open Orange and Blue intrasquad scrimmage on Nov. 2 at the O’Connell Center. The public can enter for free, and tipping begins at 7 p.m.
UF’s season opener is Nov. 6 at home against Loyola-Maryland (8 p.m., SEC Network Plus).
