TALLAHASSEE — The Florida State Seminoles rolled to a 101-64 win over the Alabama State Hornets on Friday night, improving to 2-0 under first-year head coach Luke Loucks.
Robert McCray V picked up right where he left off, dishing out two quick assists to open the game after recording a school-record 17 in this week’s win over Alcorn State. Lajae Jones knocked down a pair of early threes to help the Seminoles build an 11-5 advantage.
It’s clear this Florida State team loves to shoot from deep, a philosophy that stems directly from Loucks, who spent several years on the coaching staff of the Golden State Warriors. Through just eight minutes of play, the Noles had already attempted 10 three-pointers.
Midway through the first half, Florida State’s hot perimeter shooting continued to stretch the lead. With seven threes made, the Seminoles jumped out to a 17-point advantage, forcing Alabama State into rushed shots and extending the deficit even further. Foul trouble, however, remained an issue early. The Noles picked up nine fouls in the first 15 minutes of action.
At halftime, Florida State led 46-30, showcasing the up-tempo, high-volume shooting identity Loucks envisions for his team. The Seminoles attempted 24 threes in the opening half, connecting on eight, while also dominating the glass with 10 offensive rebounds.
Coming out of the break, the focus shifted to defensive discipline and the message stuck. Ten minutes into the second half, the Noles had committed only three fouls. Meanwhile, the offense continued to fire on all cylinders, shooting 51 percent from the field and building the lead to 30 points.
Florida State closed out the night in emphatic fashion, cruising to a 101-64 victory. Lajae Jones led the way with 20 points, while the team’s new offensive scheme allowed them to fire up 47 three-pointers, sinking 18.
It’s a strong start to the Luke Loucks era as the Seminoles establish an identity built on pace, space, and relentless energy on the boards.
Next up, Florida State heads to Gainesville for a major early-season test against the rival No. 3 Florida Gators on Tuesday night.