KISSIMMEE, Fla. — No. 18 Florida proved to be every bit of a Top 25 team in its 88-51 win over Wichita State in the championship game of the ESPN Events Invitational Friday afternoon.
The 37-point loss tied for the fifth largest in the modern era (1945-Pr.). It also marked the first 30-point loss since Feb. 9, 2020 at Houston. Wichita State (6-1) has dropped its last five MTE championship games and last nine games against ranked opponents.
Matej Bosnjak scored a team-high 11 points and Xavier Bell added 10.
Harlond Beverly was named to the All-Tournament Team.
Wichita State set season lows in points (51), field goals made (17), field goal percentage (30%), total rebounds (30) and rebound margin (minus-26). Florida's 20 offensive rebounds were the most by an opponent this season.
The Gators knocked down a season-high 14 three-pointers (14-for-33).
Florida turned a three-point game into a 19-point halftime lead, 37-18. The Gators held Wichita State scoreless for the final 5:55, closing the half on a 16-0 run.
Wichita State's 18 first half points were a season low, as they were just 6-of-32 from the field with seven turnovers. Florida dominated the glass, outrebounding Wichita State by 12, including nine offensive rebounds.
Out of halftime Florida kept the foot on the gas, scoring the first 10 points and never looked back. They led by as many as 48 in the second half.