The seventh-seeded Wolfpack, who twice used double-digit rallies to reach the Sweet Sixteen a year ago, cut an 18-point Florida deficit to just two points with 2:02 left. But the Gators closed the game with an 11-2 run, beating the Wolfpack 70-61 to advance in the West Region.
Kevarrius Hayes had 16 points and Jalen Hudson scored 15 for Florida.
Andrew Nembhard, whose 3 with a second left in the SEC Tournament against LSU likely sealed Florida's at-large bid, helped the Gators pull away with a crucial layup with 1:36 left.