![\"\"\/](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/1766483471_858_87125517007-renewalby-andersonlogo.png\")
<\/p>\nDec. 22, 2025, 10:12 p.m. ET<\/p>\n
Florida State basketball closed out its non-conference schedule on a strong note Monday night, handling the Jacksonville Dolphins in front of the home crowd at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center as the Seminoles look to build momentum ahead of a challenging ACC slate. FSU earned a convincing 87-63 victory, showcasing scoring balance, defensive activity, and production from key contributors across the roster.<\/p>\n
The Seminoles\u2019 offense was firing early, paced by Martin Somerville\u2019s early burst \u2014 including a hot start that fueled a fast pace and forced Jacksonville into rotations that couldn\u2019t keep up. Somerville finished with 23 points to lead all scorers, while Alex Steen made his presence felt with key rebounds and secondary scoring. FSU\u2019s ability to attack inside and space the floor kept the Dolphins on their heels all night.<\/p>\n
Balanced Scoring and Efficient Offense<\/p>\n
Florida State\u2019s three-point shooting was a difference-maker, particularly in the first half. The Seminoles knocked down 13 of 28 three-point attempts before halftime, helping them build a commanding 43-21 lead at the break. FSU\u2019s accuracy from deep and willingness to push the pace allowed them to stay in front on the glass and in transition.<\/p>\n
Playmaking and Defense Stand Out<\/p>\n
Bench play and ball movement were evident throughout the game. Robert McCray recorded a historical performance with his fourth career game of 10+ assists, demonstrating control, vision, and leadership on the offensive end. That kind of distribution \u2014 paired with penalties forced in key spots and opportunistic scoring \u2014 helped Florida State convert turnovers into points and keep Jacksonville on its heels.<\/p>\n
Florida State\u2019s defense was equally impressive, generating turnovers and limiting Jacksonville\u2019s opportunities. While Jacksonville has shown it can stay competitive by sharing the ball \u2014 ranking eighth in the ASUN with 13.9 assists per game \u2014 the Dolphins could not find rhythm against FSU\u2019s improved pressure defense, especially on the perimeter. The Dolphins\u2019 struggles continued a recent five-game road slide, a trend that extended Monday night in Tallahassee.<\/p>\n
Keys Moving Forward<\/p>\n
This victory not only concluded non-conference play on a high note but also provided valuable confidence and rhythm for the Seminoles heading into ACC competition. Florida State\u2019s scoring margin, defensive toughness, and ball movement were all strong indicators that the team is stabilizing after earlier inconsistency.<\/p>\n
As the Seminoles turn their focus toward a Dec. 30 road test at North Carolina, followed by home games against Duke and NC State, this performance will serve as a blueprint: efficient offense, defensive pressure, and shared scoring can be the foundation for success against the ACC\u2019s deeper competition.<\/p>\n
Follow us\u00a0@FSUWire<\/a>\u00a0on X and like our page on\u00a0Facebook<\/a>\u00a0to follow ongoing coverage of\u00a0Florida State<\/a>\u00a0news, notes, and opinions.<\/p>\n