Teams Announced for the 2023 AutoNation Orange Bowl Basketball Classic

Miami Lakes, Fla. – July 24, 2023 – Today, the Orange Bowl Committee announced four highly competitive collegiate men’s basketball programs to headline this year’s AutoNation Orange Bowl Basketball Classic. In its 29th year, the Classic will feature the Florida Gators versus the University of Richmond Spiders; and the Florida State Seminoles versus the University of South Florida Bulls on Saturday, December 9, 2023 at the FLA Live Arena in Sunrise, Fla. Game times to be announced at a later date.

The Classic, the only Division I basketball played in Broward County, will welcome fans and families during the holiday season with exciting matchups and entertainment throughout the day, including pregame activations outside of FLA Live Arena that the whole family can enjoy.

“We are very excited to welcome four talented basketball programs and their fans to South Florida,” said Orange Bowl Committee President & Chair Dr. Yvonne Johnson. “Thanks to our partners AutoNation and FLA Live Arena for what is set to be a great day of collegiate basketball and family fun.”

“We are proud to once again partner with the Orange Bowl Committee. AutoNation is committed to the communities we serve. The Orange Bowl Committee excels in providing young athletes and families in South Florida with access to Division I sports,” said AutoNation Chief Executive Officer Mike Manley.

Tickets

Fans can place a deposit for tickets online at orangebowl.org/basketball or by contacting the Orange Bowl Ticket Office at (305) 341-4701 or tickets@orangebowl.org.

The Matchups

University of Florida versus University of Richmond

The stage is set for an exhilarating showdown as the highly esteemed men’s basketball team of the University of Florida prepares to clash with the University of Richmond’s basketball squad. The Florida Gators, under the guidance of Coach Todd Golden, have proven themselves as a force to be reckoned with after leading the Gators to a postseason berth and multiple top-25 wins in 2022-23, becoming the first Florida coach to accomplish both of those benchmarks in his first season. Known for their rich basketball tradition, the Florida Gators basketball team in their 23rd appearance in the Classic (18-4 record), have consistently competed at the highest level of collegiate basketball.

Meanwhile, the University of Richmond Spiders (Richmond, Va.), led by Coach Chris Mooney, have demonstrated a methodical approach to the game, relying on precise execution and strategic plays. In 18 seasons at Richmond, Coach Mooney has led the Spiders to their only two Atlantic 10 championships, three NCAA Tournaments, seven 20-win seasons, and nine postseason appearances while amassing 325 wins, more than any coach in program history. Mooney ranks among the longest-tenured and most successful coaches in Atlantic 10 history.

Florida State University versus University of South Florida

The clash between Florida State University and the University of South Florida promises to be an enthralling battle, captivating audiences both in the arena and those tuning in from around the country. This will be Florida State’s 13th Classic appearance (9-3 record). The team is led by Coach Leonard Hamilton, the Seminoles’ all-time winningest coach and fifth all-time winningest in ACC history with 404 victories in 21 seasons. Hamilton, a three-time ACC Coach of the Year, has led the Seminoles to the NCAA Tournament five times in the last seven seasons.

The South Florida Bulls (Tampa, Fla.) are led by Coach Amir Abdur-Rahim. This is Coach Abdur-Rahim’s first year with the USF Bulls and 18th year coaching. He is known to create unparalleled student-athlete experiences with a distinct vision for USF basketball. South Florida will be making its fourth appearance in the Classic.