Billy Napier describes what he likes in Walter Clayton Jr.'s game

Todd Golden is not the only one evaluating basketball talent in Gainesville. Billy Napier was about the Florida team set to play in the Final Four on Saturday against Auburn. Specifically about the Gators’ star player, Walter Clayton.

Napier did not have an Xs and Os breakdown of Clayton but talked highly of his poise. Teams are clearly attempting to throw Clayton off his game, hoping to get Florida out of rhythm. There has been almost no fear coming from one of UF’s most experienced players, coming through in the moments that mattered the most.

“I appreciate his poise as a competitor,” Napier said. “I think there’s been a couple games — UConn and then the other night (vs. Texas Tech) — early where they’re doing everything they can do to stop the game. As the game goes, he navigates that, keeps his poise, and then comes through in the clutch.

“I think he could have easily been frustrated a number of times. It’s like he’s waiting for the opportunity and he’s going to make the play when given that chance. He’s kind of really come into his own, in my opinion as a competitor. You can’t help but respect it.”

A play everyone has talked about against Texas Tech was a late three-point shot. Walter grabbed the ball in the paint, sprinted out beyond the arc, went up, and drilled the shot. An incredible play in general but considering the circumstances, Florida had to feel comfortable when it went through the hoop.

Just like almost every Florida fan out there, Napier’s eyes will be on the game Saturday night. It’s going to be an all-SEC showdown in San Antonio against Auburn. Golden has already taken down his mentor, Bruce Pearl, once this season. The Gators went into Neville Arena and beat the Tigers by nine points.

Clayton will have to continue to play with the poise Napier discussed. Not many teams in college basketball have the collective length of Auburn, especially when defending guards. Guys like Denver Jones, Miles Kelly, and Chad Baker-Mazara are tough to shake.

Florida is going to need a timely or clutch basket at some point. Napier knows who he would draw the play up for, going with No. 1.

Sometimes, the highest praise the player can receive is from a coach involved in a completely different sport. Maybe something Napier can take with him to the gridiron.