Florida Gators Championship Squad Honored by the President at The White House………
On May 21, 2025, the Florida Gators men’s basketball team was honored at the White House by President Donald Trump in recognition of their dramatic victory in the 2025 NCAA Tournament. The Gators triumphed over the Houston Cougars with a 65–63 win in San Antonio, marking the program’s third national championship and their first since 2007 .
The ceremony took place in the East Room, with notable Florida political figures in attendance, including Attorney General Pam Bondi, Senator Marco Rubio, and Senator Rick Scott. Former Florida football star Tim Tebow also joined the celebration. President Trump praised the team’s resilience, highlighting their four come-from-behind victories during the tournament and commending Coach Todd Golden’s leadership. Trump even joked about wanting to be Golden’s agent, reflecting the lighthearted nature of the event .
A memorable moment occurred when President Trump met 7-foot-9 player Olivier Rioux, who had redshirted the 2024–25 season. Trump’s astonishment at Rioux’s height, calling it “a big advantage,” was captured in a video shared by White House communications advisor Margo Martin .
The Gators presented President Trump with a signed basketball and a personalized No. 47 jersey, commemorating the occasion. This visit
