Florida State Dominates Florida A&M 112-69 Behind Sebastian Rancik’s 25 Point Debut

Seminoles Open Season With Victory in Orion180 Tipoff Classic

Florida State made an emphatic statement in its season opener, cruising past Florida A&M 112-69 on Monday night in the Orion180 Tipoff Classic behind an outstanding debut from junior transfer Sebastian Rancik. Rancik poured in 25 points in his first game with the Seminoles, helping Florida State put together a dominant offensive performance and secure the 43-point victory.

The junior transfer from Colorado shot 8-for-12 from the field, including 2-for-5 from 3-point range, and connected on 7-of-8 free throws. He also contributed four rebounds and two assists. Marcis Ponder recorded a double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds, while Anthony Robinson II added 16 points and eight rebounds. Kam Taylor also finished with 15 points as Florida State featured a balanced offensive attack.

Brandon Bass Jr., the son of former 12-year NBA veteran Brandon Bass, made an impressive collegiate debut, scoring 13 points for the Seminoles. Shon Abaev contributed six assists and three steals, providing an additional spark on both ends of the floor.

Florida State Takes Control Early

The Seminoles wasted little time establishing control, opening the game with a 10-0 run and never looking back. Florida State’s defensive pressure and offensive efficiency helped create separation throughout the first half. The Seminoles carried a commanding 54-27 advantage into halftime before continuing their offensive surge after the break.

Florida State scored another 59 points in the second half, finishing with 112 points to complete the convincing season-opening victory. Florida State’s ability to generate offense from multiple players proved too much for the Rattlers, who struggled to keep pace with the Seminoles’ scoring throughout the night.

Jaden Kempson Leads Florida A&M

Despite the loss, Florida A&M had a strong individual performance from Jaden Kempson, who led all Rattlers with 27 points. Kempson shot 9-for-16 from the field and knocked down four of his six attempts from beyond the arc. Daisean Williford added 19 points and five rebounds for Florida A&M, but the Rattlers could not overcome Florida State’s early advantage and consistent second-half production.

Up Coming College Basketball Games

Florida A&M will look to bounce back when it hosts Fort Valley State on Thursday in its home opener. Florida State returns to action Friday when the Seminoles host Troy, looking to build on their impressive offensive performance and begin the season with a 2-0 record.