UF athletic director and members of the 2024-25 men's basketball team watch as their national-championship banner is revealed Tuesday.

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Florida Gators' traditions are always evolving, and this one is no exception. It's even newer than the "I Won't Back Down" anthem introduced in 2017.

The banners representing Southeastern Conference and national championships hang proudly from the ceiling of the Heavener Football Training Center in Jeremy Foley Hall of Champions. These banners have graced the hall for three years, with updates added annually. Each time a new title is claimed, a crowd gathers in the Condron Dining Hall to celebrate the occasion.

This Tuesday lunchtime was no different.

"We're adding three more," announced UF athletic director Scott Stricklin with pride.

The banners for lacrosse, men's golf, and men's basketball were unveiled, marking their stellar performances during the spring season. The student-athletes, coaches, and staff from various UF teams filled the hall with applause.

Lacrosse took the spotlight first. Coach Amanda O'Leary's team triumphed in its first season in the Big 12 Conference, winning 20 games, securing an 11th consecutive league tournament title, and making it to the Final Four for the second year in a row.

Next, men's golf was recognized for securing its second SEC title in three years (17th in the program's history). This victory extended UF’s record of winning at least one SEC team championship for 47 consecutive years.

Finally, it was basketball's turn.

"It's special when we unveil an SEC title," Stricklin remarked. "But it's a whole different feeling when it's a national championship."

Coach Todd Golden, in only his third season, led the Gators to an impressive 36-4 record, including an SEC Tournament victory. That set the stage for an unforgettable six-game NCAA Tournament run, culminating in a 65-63 victory over Houston in the final in San Antonio.

With that win, the Gators added their 49th all-time national championship to their legacy, three of which belong to men’s basketball.

"The amazing thing for Todd is how quickly it all happened," said men's golf coach J.C. Deacon. "At 39, he’s the youngest to win an NCAA men’s title since Jim Valvano in 1983. I’ve told him, you can have 15 more great teams over the next 15 years and not win another one, so enjoy this."

Golden and his Gators have certainly embraced the moment.

"It’s incredibly special," said Golden. "To have these players recognized by their peers like this is a big deal. Winning a national championship at a place like Florida means you’re part of something extraordinary."

And as for the tradition, it’s a fresh addition to an already impressive legacy.

After the basketball banner was unveiled, featuring the 2025 championship alongside Billy Donovan’s 2006 and 2007 titles, junior center Rueben Chinyelu grabbed the microphone. Known for his fast-paced speech, Chinyelu’s words were clear and impactful.

"We're an everything school," Chinyelu declared. "And we don’t back down."

Email senior writer Chris Harry at chrish@gators.ufl.edu