Jan. 20, 2026, 9:36 p.m. ET
In one of the tightest ACC rivalry games of the season, the Florida State Seminoles snapped a five-game losing streak and delivered a dramatic road win over the Miami Hurricanes, edging the ‘Canes 65-63 in a contest that hinged on late-game composure, free throws, and good old rivalry pride. The Seminoles led for most of the second half against a Miami squad that had lost only once in conference play prior to Tuesday’s matchup (vs. Clemson) and was among the nation’s most respected teams in analytics and voting metrics.
From the outset, FSU displayed the kind of poise that has eluded it in other close battles this season. Though Miami — riding a season of efficiency and strong defense — kept the game within reach, the Seminoles managed to maintain a small lead deep into the second half. Miami entered the matchup unbeaten at home this season before Tuesday and came into the game as a clear favorite based on analytics.
FSU’s success came in large part because it refused to fold in crunch time, a notable departure from other recent one-possession losses — including a heartbreaking defeat to Wake Forest that saw a late turnover squander a late lead.
Point guard Robert McCray V delivered one of his most complete performances of the season. After struggling with turnovers in prior games, including a career-high in the previous loss vs Wake Forest, McCray played with greater discipline and decisiveness tonight, scoring 20 points. Ranked first in the ACC in assists heading into the game, McCray showcased the playmaking ability that has made him one of the conference’s top distributors.
In the final moments, with the game tied at 63-63 and the outcome hanging in the balance, McCray attacked the basket and drew crucial contact, putting him at the free-throw line to sink the game-winning free throws. His ability to put pressure on Miami’s defense in the clutch helped put FSU in a position to secure the win, even as the Hurricanes cut into the lead late.
The contest mirrored several of Florida State’s toughest battles this season in which the ‘Noles held leads but had to execute under pressure to close games. After allowing Miami to tie the score with under 30 seconds to play, Florida State regrouped, avoided late turnovers, and hit the decisive buckets when it mattered most.
Historically, Florida State has enjoyed success against Miami in basketball matchups, and Tuesday’s win continued that trend. The Hurricanes had not beaten the Seminoles since Jan. 24, 2023, and Florida State added to its winning streak in the rivalry with a clutch road victory.
With the win, FSU not only captured its first ACC victory of the campaign but also demonstrated the growth of a young roster under pressure. This rivalry win — coming against a team that has gathered national attention and USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll 25 votes — may serve as a turning point as the Seminoles continue through league play.
In a season defined by close games and narrow margins, Florida State showed it can close one out when every possession counts, improving to 8-11 on the season.
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