A Missed Opportunity for Florida State

Florida State came close to securing its first ACC victory, but a series of costly mistakes ultimately led to a 69–68 loss against Wake Forest in Tallahassee. The Seminoles showed strong performances throughout the game, leading at halftime and dominating the glass, yet their inability to finish the game cost them a crucial win.

The game was marked by constant lead changes and high defensive intensity. Florida State started strong with solid shooting and physical play, setting the tone early. However, they allowed Wake Forest to stay competitive, as the Demon Deacons kept hanging around despite the Seminoles’ initial dominance.

One of the key moments came late in the game when a critical turnover with seconds remaining opened the door for Wake Forest’s go-ahead basket. Florida State’s final attempt fell short at the buzzer, marking a crushing collapse that squandered a golden opportunity.

First Half Dominance

Florida State carried a 34-31 advantage into halftime, fueled by impressive perimeter shooting and defensive discipline. The Seminoles shot 38% from three in the first half, hitting enough outside shots to offset interior offensive pressure from Wake Forest. This performance highlighted their ability to balance inside and outside scoring.

FSU also avoided sending Wake Forest to the free-throw line for much of the first half, not committing a shooting foul until around 17 minutes left in the second half. This defensive discipline was a notable aspect of their performance, especially considering recent ACC matchups where such discipline has been less consistent.

Ball Security Issues

Despite the strong first half, ball security became a major issue for Florida State. Robert McCray V struggled, committing six turnovers in his first 14 minutes before finishing with a career-high 11 turnovers in the game. These miscues provided Wake Forest with consistent scoring opportunities, and the Demon Deacons capitalized early in the second half.

Wake Forest started the second half with a 7-for-7 shooting stretch before FSU’s defense began to clamp down and adjust. The Seminoles’ famed ability to force turnovers this season was less evident, as Wake Forest handled the pressure effectively.

Defensive Adjustments

After Wake Forest’s hot start to the second half, FSU’s defensive adjustments curbed the Deacons’ early efficiency. This demonstrated in-game coaching responsiveness. The Seminoles even held Wake Forest scoreless for nearly five straight minutes down the stretch, sparking a critical 7-0 run that put FSU back in control.

Florida State repeatedly attacked the rim in the half-court, showing refreshing balance alongside their reputation as a high-volume three-point shooting team. However, a series of late half-court execution struggles kept Wake Forest within striking distance.

With the Seminoles up by one and the clock dwindling, McCray’s 11th turnover with 18 seconds left gifted Wake Forest a final possession. The Demon Deacons executed, hitting the go-ahead basket to take a 69-68 lead. Florida State’s final attempt at the buzzer fell short as McCray missed the potential game-winner, completing a challenging night where a chance at the first ACC win slipped away.

Looking Ahead

Although the loss stings, FSU competed fiercely against a league opponent they were predicted to fight for control with. The Seminoles’ rebounding dominance, early shooting performance, and defensive bursts show tangible progress, even if turnovers and late execution prevent the team from closing games.

Florida State will look to build on the energy and resilience as they continue navigating a difficult ACC schedule. The lessons learned from this game will be crucial as they prepare for future challenges.