Norfolk State coach Robert Jones is entering his team’s first-round NCAA Tournament matchup against top-seeded Florida with a strong sense of determination and a chip on his shoulder. He believes his team has a point to prove.
The Spartans, seeded 16th, face a significant challenge as they are 28.5-point underdogs against the Gators, who recently won the Southeastern Conference Tournament, according to BetMGM Sportsbook.
“I understand that Florida is exceptionally talented and has an excellent program with outstanding players, but does that really mean we’re that inferior?” Jones questioned. “I’m a little angry, and like I said, I’m a little bit more focused and play better when I’m angry.”
He also noted, “I believe the players elevate their game when they are fired up.”
As champions of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, Norfolk State has achieved 20 wins in each of the past four seasons and is making its third NCAA Tournament appearance in five years. Historically, the Spartans have made notable impacts in the NCAA Tournament, famously upsetting third-seeded Missouri in 2012 before losing to Florida in the subsequent round.
Jones is optimistic about a different outcome this time against the highly regarded Gators. “We’re striving to demonstrate that we are more than just representatives of the MEAC or HBCUs; we want to prove that we are genuinely one of the top teams in the nation,” Jones stated. “I think the level of focus and intensity we bring is at a different standard.”
