Talia Baia is an internet sensation now. The ESPN reporter has got social media in unrest for stealing the spotlight from the Florida Gators Final Four victory.
Bennett Andersen of the Gators stopped for a moment for a post-game interview with Baia from ESPN Gainesville, and it went viral.
This moment unfolded after the Gators celebrated their impressive 87-71 victory over the Maryland Terrapins in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA tournament.
The young reporter snapped a selfie with Andersen and posted it on her X(formerly Twitter) account.
“Congratulations @BennettAnd11, What a run!!” she captioned.
Congratulations @BennettAnd11 🥳🥳🕺🏼 what a run!! pic.twitter.com/DEk89WziWX
— Talia Baia (@talia_baia) April 8, 2025
While she was congratulating the Florida Gators’ young guard, social media fans caught stray with her. Comments started flooding, and most of them were questioning Talia for overshadowing the win and sparking relationship rumors.
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Also Read: Gators Star Bennett Andersen Fell In Love With Student Reporter In The Middle Of His Interview
Florida Gators Fans Blast ESPN Student Reporter For Stealing Spotlight
The March Madness did end well for the Florida Gators as they won the NCAA men’s basketball championship, defeating the Houston Cougars.
Throughout the game, Florida faced significant challenges, trailing by as much as 12 points in the second half and only leading for a total of 64 seconds. Despite the early struggles, the Gators demonstrated resilience, executing a crucial 15-3 run to tie the game as it entered the final moments.
However, the Florida Gators guard’s viral photo with an ESPN reporter has got internet fans reeling over it.
“Are you dating him or covering him? Don’t care if the former. But for future professional jobs, may not want to look so buddy buddy w/people you are supposed to cover? Good luck ahead though!” a fan wrote.
Are you dating him or covering him? Don't care if the former, but for future professional jobs, may not want to look so buddy buddy w/people you are supposed to cover? Good luck ahead though!
— Midwestern Views (@MidwestViews) April 8, 2025
“I thought you were part of the media?” another fan wrote.
I thought you were part of the media?
— Alec BOHM Burner Account (@BurnerBohm) April 9, 2025
“This girl quickly turning into a massive h**,” a third one blasted.
This girl quickly turning into a massive hoe
— Pok (@CumpySnute) April 8, 2025
“Stop pretending to be a journalist for the free tickets. Buy a ticket like the other fans and blog away about the good time you had!” another disgusted user wrote.
Stop pretending to be a journalist for the free tickets. Buy a ticket like the other fans and blog away about the good time you had!
— HoustonHawkeye (@HawkeyeHouston) April 9, 2025
Additionally, Head coach Todd Golden became the youngest coach to win a national title since the tournament’s expansion. In the closing seconds of the game, with Houston attempting to hold for the last shot, the Gators’ defense stepped up. As the final horn sounded, Florida secured their third national championship, marking their first win since 2007.
