In a thrilling display of resilience, the Florida State Seminoles overcame a significant deficit to triumph over Boston College with a final score of 80-72. This hard-fought victory, largely propelled by Robert McCray V's exceptional second-half performance, showcased Florida State's ability to maintain composure under pressure and execute critical plays when it mattered most. The Seminoles' strategic focus on free throws proved instrumental in shifting the game's momentum, ultimately securing a vital win that improved their season record.
Seminoles' Resilient Second-Half Surge Secures Victory
Florida State demonstrated remarkable tenacity in their 80-72 win against Boston College. After trailing for nearly 31 minutes, the Seminoles launched a decisive 10-2 scoring run in the final 1:49 of the game, sealing their comeback. Robert McCray V was the standout performer, contributing an impressive 27 points, 18 of which came in the crucial second half. Despite being outshot from three-point range, Florida State capitalized on their free-throw opportunities, sinking a season-high 27 foul shots, which proved to be a critical factor in their victory. This win not only marked their fifth in the last six games but also brought their overall season record to an even .500.
The Seminoles' path to victory was anything but easy. They faced a determined Boston College team that started strong, establishing a 16-0 run early in the first half to build a commanding 21-8 lead. Boston College's Fred Payne was particularly effective, scoring 13 points within the first 12 minutes and contributing to their 42-32 lead at halftime. The Eagles' impressive 50% shooting from the field and 8-of-12 from beyond the arc in the first half contrasted sharply with Florida State's 30% overall shooting and a mere 3-of-17 from three-point range. However, Florida State's consistent efforts at the free-throw line, including seven consecutive points from the stripe, gradually chipped away at the deficit. A crucial 19-7 run, capped by AJ Swinton's three-pointer, eventually tied the game. Lajae Jones' tip-in then gave the Seminoles a narrow lead, setting the stage for their final, game-winning push.
McCray V's Stellar Performance Fuels Comeback
Robert McCray V emerged as the central figure in Florida State's comeback, delivering a career-defining performance that propelled his team to an 80-72 triumph over Boston College. His remarkable 27 points, with a significant 18 points scored after halftime, were instrumental in overturning a double-digit deficit. McCray's efficiency from the field, hitting 9-of-15 shots, including 3-of-5 from beyond the arc, along with six rebounds and five assists, showcased his all-around impact. His ability to elevate his game in the second half directly correlated with the Seminoles' resurgence, demonstrating his critical role in their late-game heroics and their climb back to a .500 season record.
McCray V's scoring prowess was particularly evident in the face of Boston College's strong start. The Eagles, despite missing key player Donald Hand Jr., saw Fred Payne, Chase Forte, Luka Toews, and Aidan Shaw step up significantly, with Payne scoring 22 points. Boston College's initial 16-0 run and a 42-32 halftime lead underscored the challenge Florida State faced. However, McCray V, along with teammates Alex Steen (13 points, 8 rebounds) and Lajae Jones (10 points, 9 rebounds), steadily chipped away at the lead. While Florida State struggled with three-point shooting in the first half, McCray's consistent offense and the team's relentless attack on the basket, leading to a season-high 27 free throws, allowed them to slowly close the gap. The Seminoles' strategic shift, focusing on drawing fouls and converting at the line, proved to be the decisive factor, turning a significant deficit into a hard-earned victory.