The Florida State Seminoles have sent a clear message to the rest of college basketball: they’re not just good—they’re absolutely unstoppable. In a thrilling 97-68 victory over Wake Forest on Sunday, the No. 24-ranked Seminoles showcased their offensive brilliance, leaving no doubt that they are a force to be reckoned with in the ACC and beyond.
The Seminoles’ high-octane offense didn’t just show up—it exploded. Right from the opening tip, FSU took command of the game, jumping out to an early 20-4 lead in the first quarter and never looking back. By halftime, they were already cruising with a dominant 51-31 lead, and by the end of the game, they had pushed their advantage to as much as 31 points. The Seminoles’ shooting was nothing short of stellar, hitting 45.9% of their shots from the field and a scorching 46.4% from beyond the arc, draining 13 three-pointers.
This victory, part of a five-game ACC win streak, propelled FSU to the top of the standings. Coach Brooke Wyckoff praised her team’s approach, noting, “Wake is a good defensive team, but we focused on setting our pace. We wanted to control the game, and that’s exactly what we did.”
A Triple Threat: Three Seminoles Score 20+ Points in Show-Stopping Performance
What truly set this game apart? Three FSU players went above and beyond, each scoring over 20 points, a feat that’s rarely seen in such dominant victories. Ta’Niya Latson, the nation’s top scorer, delivered 25 points despite an off shooting night, going 8-for-8 from the free-throw line and adding five assists to her performance. Even when shots weren’t falling, Latson’s presence was undeniable.
Next up was O’Mariah Gordon, who was on fire from all over the floor. She finished with 22 points, shooting 9-of-16 from the field and 3-of-5 from three. Gordon’s sharpshooting was critical in keeping the Demon Deacons at bay.
Then there was Sydney Bowles, who made the most of her sixth start for FSU. The Texas A&M transfer exploded for a season-high 20 points, proving that she’s more than capable of stepping up in big moments. Her scoring burst added another layer of offensive depth to the Seminoles’ already potent attack.
Makayla Timpson: A Double-Double Machine
While the trio of 20-point scorers grabbed most of the spotlight, Makayla Timpson was quietly dominant. The senior finished with her 13th double-double of the season, tallying 12 points, 14 rebounds, and three blocks. Her presence in the paint was a nightmare for Wake Forest, as she controlled the boards and was a key factor on both sides of the ball.
Coach Wyckoff reflected on how the addition of key players has helped elevate the team’s game: “One of our main goals this offseason was to increase our depth. We’ve got more experienced players now, and it’s paying off. We’re a better, deeper team, and that’s giving everyone the chance to contribute.”
What’s Next for FSU?
With this dominant victory, Florida State has proven they can score with the best of them. As the Seminoles continue their rise in the ACC standings, they’ve set their sights on even bigger goals. Can they take down the top-tier teams in the NCAA and make a deep tournament run? If this performance is any indication, they are more than capable of doing just that.
FSU has proven they’re not just one of the best offenses in the country—they’re a complete team with weapons at every position. With the postseason quickly approaching, the Seminoles’ explosive playstyle and depth make them a team no one wants to face.
Your Turn: What’s been the key to FSU’s success this season? Is it the explosive offense, the depth, or Coach Wyckoff’s leadership? Drop your thoughts in the comments below—this team is making waves, and we want to hear what you think about their chances moving forward!
