Chandler Parsons' on what the Gators' "identity" is;
"I think we’re just a team that comes out and plays hard every play, goes up and down, presses, plays solid really good defense, really unselfish on offense, try to make the extra pass and take good shots."
Chandler, that's not an identity. That's a list of what good basketball teams do. As of right now, the Gators are not a good basketball team. Because they don't play good defense down low, take too many jump shots and have seven guys who can actually play due to health or otherwise.
Florida (12-5, 1-2 SEC) faces Arkansas (8-9, 1-1) in a game UF is supposed to win. Florida's health issues look quaint compared to Arkansas roster that was destroyed due to suspensions. But Arky has athletes like Courtney Fortson, who returned from suspension and has scored an average of 16ppg in his first two SEC games. Guard Rotnei Clark had been leading the SEC in scoring, but his production has dropped to 18.4ppg, second in the league. Marshawn Powell and Mike Washington are also scoring in double figures and make up Arkansas' front line.
The Gators have struggled with bigs, so it is important that Vernon Macklin and Alex Tyus stay out of foul trouble. With Macklin in, Florida plays like a complete team. Without him, it's on Erving Walker and Kenny Boynton to score and a hole in the middle on the other end. Florida can win this game, but Arkansas has the home building and bodies to make this a miserable night for UF.
[Update] Parsons gets the start, with Werner still trying to shake off the flu.