In a shocking turn of events, Florida State pulled off a stunning 65-63 upset over Miami at the Watsco Center, leaving the college basketball world reeling. The Seminoles, ranked 133rd in the net rankings, entered the game as significant underdogs, with CHD Scout predicting a 13.9-point victory for the Hurricanes. However, Robert McCray V and his teammates had other plans, silencing the home crowd with a gritty, hard-fought win.
The game got off to a frenetic pace, with both teams trading baskets and playing tenacious defense. At halftime, Florida State held a slim 38-37 lead, setting the stage for a nail-biting second half. Shelton Henderson, Miami's top performer, did his best to will the Hurricanes to victory, scoring 18 points and grabbing 8 rebounds. However, McCray V's 20 points was the difference-maker, as the Seminoles' guard consistently found ways to score and create for his teammates.
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Despite being outscored 26-27 in the second half, Miami's inability to pull away ultimately cost them the game. The Hurricanes' usually reliable offense stagnated at times, and they were unable to overcome the Seminoles' stifling defense. Tre Donaldson added 11 points and 5 assists for Miami, while Malik Reneau chipped in with 16 points, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Seminoles' balanced attack.
The loss is a significant blow to Miami's tournament resume, as it counts as a Quadrant 3 defeat. On the other hand, the win is a monumental boost for Florida State, as it qualifies as a Quadrant 1 victory. The Seminoles' current net ranking of 133 will likely see a significant jump, and they want to build on this momentum as they continue their season.
The upset victory is a reflection of Florida State's resilience and determination. Despite being written off by many, the Seminoles proved that they are a force to be reckoned with, and their win over Miami will send shockwaves throughout the college basketball landscape. As the season enters its critical stretch, Florida State's victory serves as a reminder that anything can happen on any given night. The Seminoles' tournament chances, once considered a long shot, now look significantly more promising, and they want to capitalize on this momentum in the coming weeks.