In a monumental shift for Florida State basketball, Leonard Hamilton officially closed the chapter on his legendary career, saying goodbye after an unforgettable 23 years with the Seminoles. His final game ended in heartache—a 66-62 loss to Syracuse—but it marked the end of an era that saw Hamilton elevate Florida State to new heights in college basketball.
Hamilton’s decision to step down earlier in February signaled the dawn of a new era for the Seminoles, and Florida State wasted no time, swiftly promoting former player Luke Loucks to take the reins as head coach.
Though the season ended on a bitter note with an 11th-place finish in the ACC and a first-round exit from the tournament, Hamilton’s legacy shines brighter than ever. Under his leadership, the Seminoles amassed 17 wins, and Hamilton became a pillar of success in the ACC, securing a spot among the top four coaches for most conference victories.
Reflecting on his time in Tallahassee, Hamilton was filled with gratitude. “I’ve been blessed, I enjoyed the ride, and it’s time to move on to the next chapter,” he shared in his final interview. But beyond wins and losses, it was the success of his players that truly defined his journey. “The fact that almost every player who stayed for four years graduated—now that’s what matters most to me,” Hamilton said, leaving behind a legacy of excellence both on and off the court.
While the Seminoles may have lost the game, they’ve gained a new hope for the future. Loucks, who knows the culture inside and out, is set to carry Hamilton’s torch, ensuring that the legacy of Florida State basketball will continue to burn bright.
The end of one era is just the beginning of another—bigger, better, and more thrilling than ever before. The future of Florida State basketball has never looked more promising!
