Syracuse defeats Florida St 94-86

Syracuse Holds Off Late Surge from Florida State, Wins 94-86

In a thrilling matchup at the JMA Wireless Dome, Syracuse (HOME) edged out visiting Florida State (AWAY), 94-86, in a conference battle that lived up to its billing.

Trailing by three points at halftime, Syracuse took control of the game with a strong second-half performance. The Orange's offense, led by Donnie Freeman's 25 points, proved too much for the Seminoles to handle as they built a 10-point lead midway through the half. Florida State attempted to mount a comeback, but Syracuse's defense held firm, limiting FSU to just two field goals over the final 5:30.

Freeman, who shot 75.0% from the field and 1-3 from three, was instrumental in the Orange's victory. William Kyle III chipped in with nine rebounds, eight points, and an assist, while Naithan George provided 11 assists to go along with his eight points.

For Florida State, Kobe MaGee led the way with 20 points, but struggled from beyond the arc, shooting just 2-7 from three-point range. Robert McCray V added 14 points off the bench, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Orange's strong team effort.

The game was a defensive battle, with both teams combining for 174 total field goals (Syracuse 59, Florida State 51) and 40 turnovers. However, Syracuse's advantage in rebounding and free throw shooting proved decisive. The Orange outrebounded FSU by nine, grabbing 33 boards to the Seminoles' 30, while converting 9-14 from the free throw line.

The win improves Syracuse's chances in the conference standings, while Florida State remains in the hunt for an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament.