Gators look to ground Flyers

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Florida’s seniors have led the way all season, but the Gators’ young bench could be the key to reaching the Final Four.

The No. 11 Dayton Flyers will come at the No. 1 Gators in waves today, unleashing as many as a dozen players to push the pace and create havoc.

Coach Archie Miller’s formula has carried the school to the cusp of its first Final Four since 1967. The Flyers’ playing style has the attention of the Gators, even though they are 10-point favorites.

“We’re playing a dangerous team,” Florida senior center Patric Young said. “They earned their spot to be here. They were the best team to make this spot.

“Hopefully we can be the best team tomorrow.”

Winners of 29 straight games, the Gators (35-2) are even better when their bench gets involved.

Florida’s reserves scored 23 points, grabbed 15 rebounds and dished out 14 assists during Thursday night’s 79-68 win against UCLA in the Sweet 16.

Back-up point guard Kasey Hill had 10 assists to join Magic Johnson, Keith Gatlin and Jason Kidd as the only freshmen with as many dishes in the Sweet 16.

Dayton (26-10) has put on a show lately. The Flyers have won 13 of 15 games, beating Ohio State, Syracuse and Stanford in the NCAA tournament.

Dayton had 19 assists during Thursday’s 82-72 win against Stanford. During a 55-53 win a round earlier against Syracuse, Dayton hit seven 3s, while holding the Orange without one.

“Everybody on our team needs to be ready to play and give maximize effort,” Gators senior Scottie Wilbekin said.