Florida and UConn Face Off in Jimmy V Classic at Madison Square Garden

 

NEW YORK, New York (FLAN 35) — The Florida Gators will take on the UConn Huskies Tuesday night in the 2025 Jimmy V Classic at Madison Square Garden, delivering an early-season marquee matchup for college basketball fans. Tip-off is scheduled for 9:00 p.m. ET with live coverage on ESPN.

The game carries added significance following last year’s NCAA Tournament, when Florida narrowly defeated UConn 77‑75 in a second-round thriller. Both teams are looking to establish momentum in the early stages of the season.

UConn enters the Jimmy V Classic with an 8‑1 record, highlighted by wins over Kansas and Illinois. Florida, currently 5‑3, is aiming to prove last season’s national championship was no fluke despite a mixed start to their campaign.

“This is a huge early test for both programs,” said UConn head coach. “We’re excited to compete on this stage against a team that has shown it can win at the highest level.”

Florida coach echoed the sentiment: “Playing UConn in a game like this brings out the best in our team. We’re ready for the challenge.”

The Jimmy V Classic, which raises awareness for cancer research through the V Foundation, is one of the first major neutral-site matchups of the college basketball season. Fans can expect a competitive game with national championship implications early in the season.