Chomp chomp: Jesuit alum Bennett Andersen earns top academic honor, scores in NCAA Tournament, and gives back to the community
Tampa’s own Bennett Andersen just wrapped up one of the most unforgettable seasons in University of Florida basketball history—and he did it all while maintaining near‑perfect grades and giving back to the community.
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The Jesuit High School of Tampa valedictorian, Class of 2020, helped the Gators capture the 2025 NCAA National Championship on Monday night in a thrilling 65‑63 win over Houston. This victory marks the latest milestone in an incredible journey that has taken Andersen from team manager to walk‑on player—and now, national champion.
Bennett Andersen was Valedictorian Jesuit High School
Andersen earned his spot on the roster after three seasons working behind the scenes as a manager for the Florida men’s basketball team. He made his collegiate debut in 2023 and scored his first point in that very game. Since then, the former intramural standout has seized every opportunity on the court. He delivered two memorable baskets during this year’s postseason run:
- In the SEC Tournament semifinal against Alabama, he capped a 104‑82 win with a driving layup that sealed Florida’s new tournament scoring record.
- In the Sweet 16 against Maryland, he put back an offensive rebound to add another crucial bucket, further fueling the team’s title momentum.
Stellar grades and a passion for basketball
Off the court, Andersen’s achievements are just as impressive. The Industrial and Systems Engineering grad finished the season with a 3.98 GPA and is currently enrolled in UF’s Master of Science in Management program. His academic excellence earned him the prestigious NCAA Elite 90 Award, which recognizes the student‑athlete with the highest GPA at the site of each of the NCAA’s 90 championships. Andersen becomes just the fourth Gator across all sports to receive the honor, joining an elite group of scholar‑athletes.
Andersen’s impact extends beyond his impressive stats and grades. He was named to the 2025 SEC Men’s Basketball Community Service Team for his off‑court efforts. He co‑founded and now serves on the executive committee of the Gainesville chapter of “Sleep in Heavenly Peace,” a nonprofit organization that builds and delivers beds to children and families in need.
A dress down day for Tampa students
TIn recognition of his incredible achievements, Jesuit principal and interim president Mike Scicchitano announced a school‑wide dress‑down day on Wednesday in honor of “Bennett Andersen Day.” This fitting tribute celebrates a hometown hero who continues to make Tampa proud—both on the court and in the community.
From valedictorian to national champion, Bennett Andersen proves that hustle, heart, and brains are a winning combination. Other recent Tampa natives have also earned major recognition: Doechii won the Grammy for Best Rap Album, and Isaiah Rodgers won the Super Bowl.
