CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The Leonard Hamilton Era of Florida State basketball officially came to a poignant conclusion on March 11, 2025, when the Seminoles fell 66-62 to Syracuse in the first round of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Tournament at the Spectrum Center. This match marked the end of Hamilton's storied 23-year tenure with the program, leaving behind a legacy of achievement and pride.
Hamilton expressed his gratitude during the game’s on-court interview, stating, "I've been blessed to have the opportunity not many people have had. I’ve enjoyed the ride, and now it is time to move on to the next chapter." His remarks reflected both his personal sense of fulfillment and the bittersweet nature of his departure.
FSU entered this matchup as the No. 11 seed and finished the season with a 17-15 overall record. Their opponent, Syracuse, embraced the No. 14 seed and improved to 14-18 by advancing to face SMU the following day.
Despite trailing 30-26 at the half, Florida State displayed resilience and determination during the second half. Syracuse initially established control, leading by as many as 16 points (50-34) with just over 13 minutes remaining. Yet, sparked by intensity and fresh combinations on the floor, FSU mounted a comeback with a 10-0 run, narrowing the gap to just six points.
Hamilton noted, "We had about three freshmen out there at one time, which is not something we’ve been accustomed to doing. I thought they responded very well, were much more aggressive, and played with a lot more desperation during this period.” FSU's earnest effort brought them within one point of tying the game with only 9.4 seconds left, resulting in increased tension as fans held their breaths.
Yet, Syracuse's JJ Starling, who scored 27 points, kept FSU at bay, leading his team effectively throughout the game. Eddie Lampkin added 14 points and nine rebounds for the Orange, demonstrating their dominance inside the paint.
On FSU’s side, Jamir Watkins delivered a commendable performance, scoring 16 points and grabbing 11 rebounds, achieving a double-double. Both Jerry Deng and Daquan Davis contributed effectively, each scoring 10 points, but their efforts fell short as the clock wound down.
Syracuse had struggled with their shooting percentage, managing just 44.1% from the field and only making 2-of-14 from three-point range. FSU's shooting was also disappointing at just 40.4% from the field and 20% from beyond the arc.
The final moments of the game saw Daquan Davis head to the free-throw line with just over two seconds remaining, succeeding on the first shot but intentionally missing the second. Unfortunately for the Seminoles, Syracuse secured the rebound and sealed their victory with two free throws, ending the game.
Despite the loss, Hamilton reflected on his accomplishments at FSU, stating, "I hope they feel we've left it in pretty good shape. But I'll let someone else judge my work because I did the very best I could." His tenure has marked significant milestones, including multiple NCAA Tournament bids and numerous player graduations.
Hamilton's overall coaching record stands out prominently—460 wins against 296 losses at FSU and 660 wins overall, garnering him esteem among basketball coaching legends. Not only did he pave the way for the program’s rise over his 23 seasons, but he also laid the groundwork for future success through his values and commitment to player development.
The baton is now being passed to Luke Loucks, Hamilton's former player, who will assume the role of head coach. Hamilton spoke highly of Loucks, saying, "There’s no doubt he will understand the culture needed to be successful. He understands the important aspects both on and off the court."
Loucks's hiring marks the beginning of what many hope will be another fruitful era for Florida State basketball. With admiration from Hamilton and familiar ties to the program, expectations are high as the Seminoles move forward.
Though Hamilton officially departs, his impact on the players, the university, and the community is indelible. The hope remains strong for Florida State fans, who look to the future with the same passion Hamilton instilled within them throughout his remarkable career.