Florida's basketball journey in December is set to be a challenging one. With games against Arizona State and North Carolina before opening SEC play against Kentucky, Tennessee, and Arkansas, the Gators are gearing up for some intense battles. Under the leadership of head coach Todd Golden, the team is bringing back memories of its past championship glory, having started the season at 9-0 with an average margin of victory of 19.9 points. But will this be enough to make them a Final Four contender?

Florida's Basketball Season: A Test of Strength

December Opponents: Arizona State and North Carolina

Florida will face an interesting test on Saturday in Atlanta against Arizona State, which ranks 46th in the NET and 50th in KenPom. This game will provide a good opportunity for the Gators to showcase their skills and prove their mettle. After that, they will travel to Charlotte for a matchup at the Jumpman Classic against North Carolina. The Tar Heels fell out of the Top 25 this week after a loss to Alabama in the ACC-SEC Challenge. This will be another tough road game for Florida after they passed their first road test by winning at Florida State.The average offensive rating of the nine teams Florida has beaten so far is 316, indicating that they have faced some offensively challenged opponents. But now, they will need to be at their best against more formidable opponents.

SEC Play Begins: Kentucky, Tennessee, and Arkansas

After wrapping up non-conference play with home games against UNF and Stetson, Florida will open SEC play at No. 5 Kentucky. This will be a tough start to the conference season, as Kentucky is a strong team. Then, they will host No. 1 Tennessee before traveling to face Arkansas. Each of these games will be a Quad 1 matchup, presenting a significant challenge for the Gators.Florida appears to be a more balanced team in its third year under Golden. Their offensive efficiency rating ranks fifth according to KenPom, and their defensive efficiency rating is 29th. Transfer guards Alijhah Martin and Rueben Chinyelu have shown their defensive prowess, while forwards Alex Condon, guard Will Richard, and Walter Clayton have also improved defensively.To succeed in SEC play, Florida will need to continue to play balanced basketball. As Clayton said, "The main thing is not to come in content. You've got to earn that every day in practice and then go out and do what it takes to win in games."Kevin Brockway is The Gainesville Sun's Florida beat writer. Contact him at kbrockway@gannett.com. Follow him on X @KevinBrockwayG1.