On opening night of the college basketball season, the Florida State Seminoles set the tone for a promising campaign, defeating Northern Kentucky 74-62 in Tallahassee. Senior standout Jamir Watkins and sophomore Taylor Bol Bowen led the charge, each scoring 17 points to propel the Seminoles to their first victory of the season.
Watkins, the team’s leading scorer last season with an average of 15.6 points and six rebounds, picked up where he left off. He showcased his scoring prowess by shooting 8-for-17 from the field, including a three-pointer, while adding four rebounds. Bol Bowen, a rising talent for Florida State, was highly efficient on the night, shooting 5-of-9 from the floor and displaying his accuracy at the charity stripe, converting all seven of his free-throw attempts. He scored 15 of his 17 points in a strong first half, helping the Seminoles establish control early.
Florida State was able to create separation eight minutes into the game, taking a lead they wouldn’t relinquish. They entered halftime with a 43-31 advantage and maintained a double-digit cushion throughout the second half. The Seminoles’ balanced offense contributed to their success, with 14 assists on 28 made field goals, and four players dishing out at least three assists.
Northern Kentucky battled hard, with Josh Dilling leading the Norse with 18 points. Randall Pettus II provided additional firepower, adding 12 points and hitting 6-of-7 free throws. Both Dilling and Pettus II were sharp from the line, as the Norse shot a combined 12-of-13 on free throws.
Overall, the Seminoles shot 44% from the field, connecting on 28 of their 63 attempts, and demonstrated poise on both ends of the court to secure the win. Monday’s matchup marked the first time these two teams have faced each other, and it also ended Florida State’s Horizon League drought, as their last win against a Horizon League opponent was a dominant 100-71 victory over Detroit Mercy in 2016.
This opening victory gives Florida State a solid foundation as they look to build on last season, with Watkins and Bol Bowen proving they are ready to lead the way.
