Who Will Rule the Court? Florida vs. Houston – The Ultimate NCAA 2025 Championship Matchup

Top-Seeded Gators Take on Houston Cougars in March Madness Final

The 2025 NCAA Men’s Basketball season comes to a thrilling close tonight as the Florida Gators face off against the Houston Cougars in the national championship game. Both teams are coming off electric Final Four performances and head into this matchup with identical 35-4 records. Tip-off is set for Monday, April 7 at 8:50 p.m. ET, live on CBS.

Florida is chasing its first title since 2007, while Houston is hoping to make school history with its first-ever NCAA men’s basketball championship win.

Florida vs. Houston: Final Four Highlights

Houston Cougars stunned the basketball world with a 9-0 run in the final 35 seconds to defeat Duke 70-67. Their defensive pressure and clutch free-throws were key to the comeback.

Florida Gators leaned on standout guard Walter Clayton Jr., who dropped 34 points to help the Gators edge out Auburn, 79-73.

Both programs have proven to be clutch under pressure, setting the stage for a potential classic.

The Houston Cougars raise the trophy after clinching the 2025 Big 12 Conference Championship, capping off a dominant season with a statement win.”

How to Watch Florida vs. Houston Live Online Without Cable

The championship airs on CBS, but cord-cutters can stream the game using these services:

Paramount+ with Showtime – Offers CBS livestream with a free trial for new users.

DirecTV Stream – Includes CBS in most markets.

Fubo – Sports-focused streaming service with CBS coverage and a free trial.

Pro Tip: Try Paramount+ with Showtime’s free trial to watch the NCAA Championship for free tonight.

What’s at Stake

Florida Gators are aiming to cap off a dominant season and bring home their third NCAA title, with the last coming in 2007 under Billy Donovan.

Houston Cougars are on the hunt for program history, having come close in past years but never clinched the title.

Both teams boast strong defensive numbers and elite guard play, but tonight’s showdown could come down to composure in the final minutes.

Key Players to Watch

Walter Clayton Jr. (Florida) – Averaging 20+ points in the tournament, he’s been a walking bucket in the clutch.

Jamal Shead (Houston) – The Cougars’ floor general is crucial on both ends of the court.

Donovan Clingan (Florida) – A major presence in the paint who could be a difference-maker against Houston’s aggressive style.

Prediction

Expect a physical, high-energy matchup with lead changes throughout. If Houston can replicate their defensive lockdown against Duke, they’ll stand a real chance. But if Walter Clayton Jr. stays hot, Florida may reclaim the crown.

Florida star Walter Clayton Jr. soaks in the moment with fans after dropping 34 points to lead the Gators to the national championship game.

Final Prediction: Florida 74, Houston 70