Gator freshman Kenny Boynton scored 22 points, Chandler Parsons added 15 points and 12 rebounds and Florida overcame a slow start to beat Georgia Southern 69-49 Wednesday night to open the Legends Classic.
Vernon Macklin chipped in 15 points and seven boards for the Gators (2-0), who also face Troy, #2 Michigan State and either Massachusetts or Syracuse in the tournament.
Florida struggled in the first half, shooting 26 percent from the floor and missing all nine shots from 3-point range. The Gators led 26-25 at halftime despite 10 turnovers and two assists. Coach Billy Donovan probably ripped his players at the break, especially with his mentor, Louisville coach Rick Pitino, sitting courtside. They responded with a considerably better effort in the second half, scoring 43 points on nearly 50-percent shooting. Rory Spencer led the Eagles (1-2) with 13 points.