Florida State closed out its non-conference slate in style Monday night, cruising past Jacksonville 87-63 at the Tucker Center in what was arguably their most complete performance of the season. Now sitting at 7-6, the Seminoles head into ACC play with some much-needed momentum-and plenty to build on.
From the opening tip, FSU looked locked in. They took care of the basketball, finishing with just eight turnovers-an area that’s been a problem at times this season.
Offensively, they kept the pressure on, shooting 46% from the field and knocking down 11 threes. While they still leaned heavily on the perimeter-54% of their shots came from beyond the arc-their efficiency and ball movement helped balance things out.
Free throws, often a thorn in the side of this squad, were a bright spot. The Noles went 20-of-26 from the line, a significant improvement that could be a difference-maker in tighter games down the line. Just as important, they played disciplined defense, committing fewer fouls than usual and holding Jacksonville to only 14 free-throw attempts.
Transition play was another key factor. FSU outscored the Dolphins 13-0 on fast breaks, showing a level of pace and control that’s been inconsistent this year.
They also won the rebounding battle comfortably, giving them extra possessions and limiting second-chance opportunities for Jacksonville. And with every player seeing at least two minutes of action, this was a true team effort from top to bottom.
Martin Sommerville led the way with 23 points, hitting 5 of 10 from deep and providing a steady scoring punch all night. Chauncey Wiggins added 16, while Alex Steen nearly posted a double-double with 13 points and nine boards. Off the bench, Thomas Bassong chipped in 13 points and eight rebounds, and Robert McCray filled the stat sheet with five points, five rebounds, and 10 assists.
This was the kind of game that shows what FSU can be when things click: efficient, unselfish, and aggressive without being reckless. If they can bottle up this formula-limit turnovers, knock down free throws, push the pace in transition, and get balanced scoring-they’ll give themselves a shot in the ACC.
That challenge starts immediately. Florida State heads to Chapel Hill next, where a tough test awaits against North Carolina.
Tip-off is set for Tuesday, December 30th at 7 p.m. on ESPN2. It’s a big step up in competition, but if the Noles can carry over this energy and execution, they might just be ready to make some noise in conference play.