2 weeks Ago By Athlon Sports
Florida entered the 2025 national title game having staged its third straight comeback of the tournament. In the game, the Gators overcame a 12-point second-half deficit to stun Houston 65–63 and claim the Gators’ third NCAA men’s basketball crown (2006, 2007, 2025) and first under coach Todd Golden. Earlier, in the Final Four, Florida erased an eight-point halftime hole to down Auburn 79–73, punctuated by All-American guard Walter Clayton Jr.
’s 34 points and Thomas Haugh’s 12 points and seven rebounds. The Gators had to overcome a 10-point deficit with over six minutes remaining in the Elite Eight contest against Texas Tech.On Friday, marchmadnessmbb posted on Instagram with the news that sophomore forward Haugh would be returning for the 2025-26 season.
"Thomas Haugh is back," posted the NCAA. "The National Champions return a key piece to the squad." View this post on InstagramA post shared by NCAA March Madness (@marchmadnessmbb)Haugh emerged as a versatile force off the bench in 2024-25, averaging 9.
8 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 2.2 assists in 24.
5 minutes per game. His efficiency improved markedly, shooting 48.5% from the field and 34.
0% from three-point range, up from 45% and 25.5% as a freshman. In February, Haugh put up a season-high 20 points in an 88-67 win over South Carolina, alongside six rebounds, three assists, two steals and one block.
Florida Gators forward Thomas Haugh (10).© Bob Donnan-Imagn ImagesIn the West Regional Final against Texas Tech in the NCAA Tournament, Haugh matched his season high, tallying 20 points and 11 rebounds, spearheading Florida's comeback.He earned All-Tournament honors in the region after averaging 13.
2 points, 7.5 rebounds and three assists over four games. With Haugh back in the fold, Florida returns a rare blend of youth and championship experience.
Expect Haugh to step into a leading role, both as a versatile scorer and on-ball defender, as the Gators chase back-to-back crowns.Related: Gonzaga's Mark Few Loses Forward to Transfer Portal on ThursdayRelated: Duke Sends Clear Message on Former Transfer Portal Player After Entering NBA Draft.
