Sun Mar 30 00:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Gators Aim for First NCAA Tournament Win Against Norfolk State
**RALEIGH, NC** – The Florida Gators, a top-ranked team this season, head into their NCAA Tournament opener against Norfolk State on Friday with a significant hurdle: a lack of tournament experience. Only two players on the roster, guard Alijah Martin and forward Rueben Chinyelu, have ever advanced past the first round.
Despite the relative inexperience, the Gators are confident. While many players are making their tournament debut or are playing in only their second tournament, several players, including Colin Castleton Jr., are entering their third or second postseason run. The team also draws upon Martin’s experience reaching the Final Four with FAU.
Martin emphasized the importance of staying humble and focused, while other returning players aim to learn from last year’s heartbreaking first-round loss to Colorado. That experience, players believe, will serve as valuable preparation for this year’s tournament.
Head coach Todd Golden, also seeking his first NCAA Tournament win, acknowledges the challenge but believes his team is prepared. A victory against Norfolk State would not only mark the team’s first tournament win but also serve as a crucial first step towards a deep tournament run.
First Piper 