The Florida Gators men’s basketball team celebrated their 2025 NCAA National Championship victory with a White House visit on Wednesday, but President Donald Trump’s attempt at humor during the ceremony appeared to fall flat with some players.
Following in the footsteps of other recent championship teams—including the Florida Panthers, Ohio State Buckeyes, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Philadelphia Eagles—the Gators were honored at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue after clinching the March Madness title by defeating Houston in the final.
Head coach Todd Golden led most of the roster in making the trip to the nation’s capital, although the NCAA women’s champions, University of Connecticut, have yet to receive a similar invitation.
Earlier in the day, the team toured the Capitol building before arriving at the White House, where Trump greeted the players and staff in the East Room. During his remarks, the president made a lighthearted comment crediting the team’s success primarily to their coach rather than the athletes themselves.
“I just met your coach, now I see why you won,” Trump said amid chuckles from the crowd. “Tall guys, good-looking guys. Congratulations, fantastic job.”
While some laughed, a few players showed a more reserved reaction. One athlete standing near the president maintained a serious expression, quietly acknowledging Trump’s remarks with a nod and a whispered “appreciate it.”
This moment reflects a pattern of Trump’s unconventional behavior during similar sports visits. Earlier this year, during the Eagles’ White House ceremony celebrating their Super Bowl LIX victory, Trump notably avoided standing next to team owner Jeffrey Lurie and commented on the players’ imposing stature while standing elevated on a platform himself.
Likewise, during Ohio State’s visit following their College Football Playoff National Championship win, Trump again positioned himself physically above the athletes.
At the Dodgers’ 2024 World Series celebration, the president’s interaction with star player Max Muncy drew attention after Trump touched Muncy’s arm and praised his throwing ability.
As championship visits continue, the Florida Gators’ reception underscores the varying dynamics between the teams and the president during these high-profile celebrations.
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