Gator Nation’: Netflix Releases Documentary Chronicling UF Basketball’s Resurgence
Netflix has officially announced the upcoming release of Gator Nation, a new sports documentary that captures the dramatic resurgence of the University of Florida (UF) men’s basketball program. The film, slated for release in summer 2025, focuses on the team’s journey back to national glory, culminating in their NCAA championship win earlier this year.
Directed and produced by Box To Box Films—the production company behind Formula 1: Drive to Survive and Full Swing—Gator Nation provides an exclusive behind-the-scenes look into the transformation of a once-struggling basketball powerhouse into a national title contender.
The centerpiece of the documentary is head coach Todd Golden, who took charge of the Gators in March 2022. Inheriting a team in need of rebuilding, Golden faced a difficult first season with a 16–17 record. However, he quickly began reshaping the program with smart recruiting, innovative strategies, and an emphasis on player development. His work began to pay off during the 2023–24 season, which ended with a 21–10 record and an NCAA tournament berth.
The 2024–25 season marked a dramatic turnaround. The Gators started strong with a 13–0 run and quickly became one of the most talked-about teams in college basketball. With key returners like Walter Clayton Jr. and Will Richard, along with high-impact transfers such as Alijah Martin, the team developed a winning chemistry that dominated the SEC. They captured their first SEC Tournament title since 2014 and earned a top seed in the NCAA tournament.
The tournament run was nothing short of legendary. Florida took down several top teams, including a dramatic victory over the two-time defending champions, UConn. The final game saw them face the Houston Cougars, where the Gators edged out a 65–63 win to claim their first national title since the Billy Donovan era. Walter Clayton Jr. was named the Final Four’s Most Outstanding Player for his clutch performances and leadership throughout the tournament.
Netflix’s Gator Nation not only showcases game highlights and major milestones but also explores the personal stories, sacrifices, and determination that fueled the team’s incredible season. From practice sessions and locker room speeches to emotional moments and tactical insights, the documentary offers a full view of what it took to restore the program’s former glory.
The film continues Netflix’s growing interest in collegiate sports, following the success of previous releases like UNTOLD: Swamp Kings, which chronicled the dominance of the Florida Gators football team under Urban Meyer. Gator Nation promises a similarly gripping narrative, with a focus on resilience, leadership, and the power of teamwork.
With its release set for summer 2025, Gator Nation is expected to resonate not just with Florida fans, but with sports lovers everywhere who appreciate a true comeback story. From adversity to triumph, the documentary captures one of the most inspiring college basketball seasons in recent memory.