The UNC Tar Heels claimed victory over the Florida State Seminoles with a score of 96-85 on February 24, 2025, marking one of the team's best performances of the season, as they secured their fourth consecutive win. The triumph came during their only regular season matchup against the Seminoles, and it was pivotal for the Tar Heels as they navigate the NCAA Tournament bubble.
Senior guard RJ Davis led UNC with 20 points on just nine shots, demonstrating remarkable efficiency throughout the game. His performance was complemented by junior guard Seth Trimble, who came off the bench to score 17 points. Collectively, six Tar Heels finished the game with double-digit scoring, just the second time this season the team has achieved such offensive balance, previously seen against Kansas. UNC's ability to capitalize on its three-point shooting, making 10 of 26 attempts, significantly contributed to their success. With this win, UNC improved to 16-4 when successfully hitting at least 30% from beyond the arc.
Throughout the game, the action was fast-paced and intense. The first half was filled with aggressive plays, and FSU's defense was relentless, even forcing the Tar Heels to face shot clock violations early on. The Seminoles took the lead momentarily, showcasing their energy and athleticism, but UNC quickly grabbed the momentum back.
The turning point came as the first half unfolded. Amidst the showcase of talent and scoring, the Tar Heels began to dominate the offensive glass, pulling down eight offensive rebounds and converting those chances for 16 points. This relentless pursuit of rebounds allowed the Heels to hold the lead at halftime, 49-43, even after FSU shot 63% from the field earlier.
Coach Hubert Davis adjusted his strategy during the second half, especially due to foul trouble affecting key players like Ven-Allen Lubin and Jalen Washington. He had to get creative with the lineup, opting to move Leaky Black to the center position and calling upon Cade Tyson to play power forward. Tyson's contributions were strong, particularly with offensive rebounds and composure under pressure.
The second half displayed additional challenges, as both teams struggled with foul calls, leading to 18 fouls being called within the first ten minutes of play. Despite the disruptions, UNC managed to maintain defensive pressure on FSU's standout Jamir Watkins, who had been effective earlier but was limited to only eight points after halftime.
Despite FSU's best efforts to mount comebacks, including cutting UNC's lead down to six at one point, the Tar Heels kept responding with key baskets, especially from Davis and Trimble, who silenced the crowd with timely shooting. Davis's ability to hit three-pointers at pivotal moments and Trimble's aggressive drives to the basket significantly helped expand their lead.
Hubert Davis's adjustments paid off, allowing the Tar Heels to effectively navigate the game's challenges. They employed both man-to-man and zone defenses, attempting to stifle Florida State's flow and force them to work harder for their shots.
With the game winding down, the Tar Heels showcased their depth and versatility. Cade Tyson's contributions ended up being invaluable, and Seth Trimble's performance off the bench highlighted the team's strength beyond just starting players. The two provided UNC with the spark needed to keep Florida State at bay.
The victory marks the sixth consecutive time UNC has defeated FSU, highlighting their recent dominance over the Seminoles. This win propels the Tar Heels back to their home court for their next match against Miami, where they hope to extend their winning streak.
Lastly, the game served as something of a tribute to Florida State's head coach Leonard Hamilton, who announced he would be retiring after the season. The long-time FSU coach has been influential and admired for his contributions to college basketball, recognized as the fifth-winningest coach in ACC history.