The University of Florida Men’s Basketball team traveled to Washington, D.C. on Thursday to meet with President George W. Bush on the South Lawn of the White House. The Gators, along with 11 other NCAA Championship teams in various sports, were invited to the nation’s capitol as part of the NCAA’s National Student-Athlete Day.

The festivities started with a photo opportunity on the South Lawn, followed by a tour of the White House. The President then addressed each of the 12 teams individually. 

“Today is the day we recognize that millions have competed in the NCAA, but only a few become champs,” the President said. “I want you all to recognize that the Gators started the season with 17 wins in a row, and they ended with 11 in a row – the most important 11 wins of the season. They have a following all over the country, including my brother.”

The 2006 Gator basketball team was Florida’s fifth national championship team to visit The White House, joining the 1996 football team, the 1998 soccer and 1998 and 2003 women’s tennis teams. The 1922 Gator football team also visited the White House.

The basketball team will return to Gainesville and participate in a rally on Friday night at the O’Connell Center. Check www.gatorzone.com for details on the championship rally.