The Florida State men's basketball team turned around a sluggish first half to defeat Pitt 82-70 in an intense ACC matchup. Malique Ewin's explosive second-half performance and Jamir Watkins' game-high 26 points were pivotal in securing the win at the Donald L. Tucker Center. Four players reached double figures, helping FSU improve to 12-5 (3-3) in conference play. Head coach Leonard Hamilton highlighted the mental and emotional growth of his team, noting that their resilience was key to overcoming early struggles.

In the first half, both teams struggled with turnovers and poor shooting efficiency, leading to a low-scoring affair. The Seminoles managed a slim 28-23 lead at halftime, thanks largely to Watkins' scoring prowess. However, the second half saw a dramatic improvement, with FSU dominating offensively and defensively to maintain control until the final buzzer. Despite a post-game incident involving players from both sides, the victory marked a significant step forward for the Seminoles.

Ewin's Dominant Second Half Propels Team Forward

Malique Ewin emerged as the catalyst for Florida State's comeback, contributing significantly in the final period. His ability to score quickly and effectively shifted the momentum in favor of the Seminoles. With 15 of his 18 points coming after halftime, Ewin not only provided immediate offense but also energized his teammates. His performance included a crucial dunk that sparked a confrontation between players post-game, highlighting the intensity of the match.

Ewin's impact extended beyond just scoring; he recorded a double-double with a team-high 13 rebounds, three blocks, and a steal. This all-around effort was instrumental in bolstering FSU's defense and maintaining control over the game. Coach Hamilton praised Ewin's response to the challenge posed by the team, emphasizing how his energy in the second half exemplified the mindset shift needed for success. Ewin's contribution was particularly vital given the team's struggles in the first half, where only Watkins could find consistency on the offensive end.

Overcoming First-Half Struggles to Secure Victory

The initial portion of the game was marred by inefficiency and turnovers for both teams. Florida State shot a mere 28% from the field and committed 10 turnovers, limiting their scoring opportunities. Only Watkins managed to find a rhythm, scoring 11 points and hitting three of four three-point attempts. Despite these challenges, the Seminoles clung to a narrow lead, thanks in part to strong defensive plays including seven steals and two blocks.

The turnaround began in the second half, where FSU demonstrated remarkable improvement. They shot an impressive 59% from the field, connecting on 16 of 27 attempts. The team's ability to capitalize on early opportunities, going 8-of-10 from the field within the first five minutes, set the tone for the remainder of the game. Watkins continued to excel, finishing with 26 points, while the team's overall offensive resurgence allowed them to withstand a late surge from Pitt. This contrast between the two halves underscored the importance of mental toughness and adaptability in competitive college basketball.