In a thrilling conclusion to their nonconference basketball schedule, the Florida State Seminoles secured a commanding 87-63 victory against Jacksonville at the Donald L. Tucker Center in Tallahassee. While they finished with a 7-6 record overall in non-league play—boasting an impressive 7-1 record on their home court—the true test awaits them as they gear up for Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) action starting December 30th against North Carolina. Meanwhile, Jacksonville’s season record declines to 5-8.
The game started strongly for FSU, who led by a significant 43-21 margin at halftime. This early dominance was fueled by Martin Somerville, who scored 13 points in the first half alone. Notably, all eight players who stepped onto the court in the initial 20 minutes contributed points, reflecting the team’s balanced offensive approach. In that first half, the Seminoles shot 46.4% from the field (13-for-28), including 42.1% beyond the arc (8-for-19), and maintained solid free-throw accuracy at 64.3% (9-for-14). They also out-rebounded Jacksonville 22-12, illustrating their dominance on the glass.
The intensity carried over into the second half, with Florida State extending their lead to as much as 32 points, showcasing their ability to maintain control throughout the game.
Martin Somerville’s standout performance concluded with a season-high 23 points, marking his first time leading FSU in scoring for this season. He displayed remarkable shooting prowess, hitting five three-pointers—his streak of making at least one three-pointer in every game this season now stands at an impressive 42 straight games. Additionally, Somerville was perfect at the free-throw line, going 8-for-8, which marked his season-best in free-throw attempts.
Other key contributors included Chauncey Wiggins with 16 points and Alex Steen with 11, while Thomas Bassong and Lajae Jones each scored 10 points, adding depth to the offensive effort. Steen also led the team in rebounds with nine, and Bassong secured a career-best eight boards, demonstrating their all-around contributions.
On the assist front, Robert McCray V, despite scoring only five points, dished out a game-high 10 assists. This achievement marks his fourth game this season with double-digit assists—a feat no other Florida State player has matched in school history for a single season or across their entire college career.
Throughout the game, Florida State relied on a core group of eight players for the majority of their minutes. However, Alier Maluk and Shah Muhammad checked into the game for the final two minutes, with Jalen Crawford stepping in for the last 95 seconds. Notably, AJ Swinton was the only regular contributor who did not see game time.
Statistically, the Seminoles shot 45.9% from the field overall (28-for-61), including 33.3% from three-point range (11-for-33). They excelled at free throws, making 76.9% (20-for-26), and assisted on 19 of their 28 baskets. Their disciplined play was evident in their low turnover count of just eight.
Rebounding was a decisive factor, with Florida State dominating 44-28 on the boards, which translated into a 14-5 advantage in second-chance points. Fast breaks were also a strength for FSU, generating 13 points in transition, while holding Jacksonville scoreless on fast breaks for the entire game.
Defensively, the Seminoles secured three steals and one block, while Jacksonville managed six steals and four blocks—highlighting the physicality and defensive efforts from both teams.
Jacksonville’s standout was Chris Lockett, who scored 18 points and grabbed seven rebounds. Their shooting percentage was lower at 40% (24-for-60), with a very cold 16.1% from beyond the arc (5-for-31). They also made 71.4% at the free-throw line (10-for-14).
The historical series remains heavily in FSU’s favor, now standing at 49 wins to Jacksonville’s 19, with the Seminoles maintaining a perfect 20-game winning streak in the series and a 24-13 record against JU in Tallahassee alone.
Looking ahead, the Seminoles will face North Carolina on Tuesday at 7 p.m. The game will be broadcast on ESPN2, promising an exciting start to ACC play and the next chapter of their competitive journey. But here’s where it gets controversial—does nonconference success truly translate to conference dominance? What are your thoughts on how well FSU is prepared for the tougher ACC competition? Share your opinions below!
