As the Florida State basketball program gears up for a pivotal matchup with Notre Dame on Tuesday, there’s an undeniable sense of anticipation in the air. With Coach Leonard Hamilton announcing his departure at season’s end, the Seminoles are preparing for a new chapter, but not without one last push under their legendary leader. Hamilton’s farewell adds extra weight to the game, as the team battles to send him off in the best possible way.
The game kicks off at 7 p.m. EST at the Donald L. Tucker Center in Tallahassee, broadcasted on the ACC Network. While both teams have struggled lately, FSU is determined to find redemption after a heartbreaking loss to Boston College—one that saw them squander a 15-point lead, ultimately collapsing in the final seconds.
Notre Dame, led by Markus Burton and Micah Shrewsberry, has also faced its share of challenges. Despite promising hype entering the season, the Fighting Irish have faltered, most recently handing Miami its first ACC win. Still, Notre Dame boasts a deadly three-point shooting game, ranking 25th nationally at 37.9%, and their ACC-leading 40.9% from deep in conference play will test FSU’s perimeter defense, which has been shaky.
Key players to watch include Burton, who averages 20.1 PPG, and Tae Davis, making a significant leap with 15.5 PPG and 5.3 RPG. Florida State must find a way to contain these threats, particularly Burton’s elusive, playmaking abilities.
With the uncertainty of Coach Hamilton’s future hanging over the team, will the Seminoles rise to the occasion or fall short? And will the return of Taylor Bol Bowen and Jerry Deng, both nursing injuries, play a critical role in FSU’s fortunes? This game promises to be a rollercoaster, with emotions running high, and all eyes will be on the court as the Seminoles fight for pride—and Coach Hamilton’s legacy.
