Syracuse has dropped four of its last give games heading into the ACC Tournament.
To say either Florida State or Syracuse didn't get off to an auspicious start in this game would be an understatements. It took five minutes and 12 seconds for either team to make a field goal and Syracuse had seven turnovers in the game's first seven minutes. Eventually things picked up and Syracuse was able to pull ahead behind the play of Tyler Lydon and Trevor Cooney early but in due course Florida State won 78-73.
Florida State would rallied past Syracuse's early lead, however, Xavier Rathan-Mayes nailed a Steph Curry esque three at the halftime buzzer to cut Florida State's deficit to four and gave the Seminoles momentum heading into the break.
The second half started better -- or worse depending on your disposition -- as Malik Beasley hit three consecutive threes and Malachi Richardson hit one of his own.
Late in the second half with the game tied 55, FSU went on an 8-0 run to give the Seminoles some separation. Syracuse fought back but again FSU went on a run to give itself some breathing room. Syracuse once again was able to cut into Florida State's lead late by applying pressure and forcing turnovers but ultimately Florida State won by five.
Syracuse had a chance to tie the game late on a Cooney three but he missed off the iron and Florida State got a run out on the other end. Michael Gbinije finished with 21 points and fouled out of the game late. Lydon finished with 16 points and Richardson had 15 of his own.
Syracuse falls to 19-12 overall and 9-9 in the ACC. The Orange will now head to Washington D.C. as either the eight or nine seed in the ACC Tournament. Its first game and opponent are TBD.
Meanwhile, Syracuse just lost at Florida State. Cuse is 19-12. Would have to think it needs at least one ACCT win to feel decent. Two = lock
— Matt Norlander (@MattNorlander) March 5, 2016
