Florida had their chance to steal the game but ultimately a lack of execution on both ends led to a 69-68 loss to the Mississippi State Bulldogs, knocking the Gators out of the SEC Tournament in their opening game. Most of the game was controlled by the Bulldogs but the Gators battled back in the final moments of regulation, tying the game with a Myreon Jones three. In overtime the Gators fell behind by multiple possessions again but clawed themselves back, ultimately taking the lead with 12 seconds left after a Riley Kugel steal led to Niels Lane layup to give the Gators the lead.