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Florida State (2-0, 1-0 ACC) defeated the Virginia Cavaliers (0-5, 0-2 ACC) today by a 69-51 score in Tallahassee, FL.
Game Recap
FSU started the game in fine fashion scoring the first seven points of the game. Izabela Nicoletti finished the run by banking in a triple off the glass. It was Nicoletti’s first ever points in a Florida State uniform. However, Virginia fought back with a 10-4 run capped by a three ball from Aaliyah Pitts to cut the lead to 11-10. Bianca Jackson scored four points to answer for the Noles and after a pair of UVA free throws the quarter ended with FSU up 15-12.
The Hoos scored the first six points of the second quarter to take an 18-15 lead. Bianca Jackson answered with a three to tie the score at 18. Virginia responded with five quick points. Valencia Myers broke the run with a jumper. From there the two teams mostly traded baskets and the game was tied at halftime at 28-28.
UVA started the third quarter strong taking a 33-30 lead on an Emily Maupin jumper. However, the Seminoles finally took control after that going on a 12-4 run to take a 45-37 lead. Bianca Jackson ended the quarter with a layup and FSU enjoyed a 49-39 lead going into the fourth quarter.
FSU really broke the game open early in the fourth quarter scoring the first 15 points in the last stanza to take a commanding 64-39 lead. From there the Noles cruised to the final 69-51 margin of victory.
Post Game
Valencia Myers led the Seminoles with 14 points, five rebounds and nine blocks. Bianca Jackson and Kourtney Weber chipped in with 13 points each while Morgan Jones had 12.
Valencia Myers tied a school record for blocks with nine. Jacinta Monroe also had nine in 2009 against Georgia Tech.
Virginia only had seven players travel to Tallahassee. The Cavaliers have been depleted this season due to injury.
Florida State had 14 first half turnovers but settled down and only committed four in the second half.
FSU was clearly rusty in the first half but wore down the Hoos in the second half as UVA couldn’t keep up with their short bench. The Seminoles need to play more games to find their rhythm but there is clearly talent to work with on this roster.
Next Game
Louisville has been dealing with Covid issues so the originally scheduled game with the Cardinals has been postponed. Instead FSU will travel to Clemson on Thursday to take on the Tigers. The game will tip at 7pm. Clemson (6-1, 1-1 ACC) lost to Pitt today by an 80-71 score.