A Season Concludes: FSU Forgoes Postseason Beyond NCAA Tournament
The Seniors' United Stance on Postseason Play
The Florida State men's basketball team will not be participating in the 2026 National Invitation Tournament. This choice was made collectively by the team's senior players, who expressed a clear preference to only compete in the NCAA Tournament for their postseason aspirations. The decision was relayed by Warchant's Ira Schoffel, effectively bringing to a close a season that surprised many with its unexpected turns and competitive spirit.
The Heartbreaking Conclusion Against Duke
This pivotal decision followed a narrow 80-79 defeat to Duke, the top seed, in the ACC Tournament quarterfinals. The game's dramatic ending saw Robert McCray V's potential game-winning three-pointer miss at the buzzer, leaving the Seminoles just shy of a historic upset. Despite the outcome, the seniors' choice to end their season on their own terms, after such a hard-fought contest, reflects their pride and dedication throughout the season.
Defining Moments for the Senior Class
The core group of seniors, including Robert McCray, Lajae Jones, Chauncey Wiggins, and Alex Steen, were central to Florida State's impressive late-season surge. They were determined to conclude their collegiate careers on a significant platform, making the ACC Tournament their final stage. Their resolve was evident in their performance, leaving a lasting impression on the program.
A Near Upset and the Bitterness of Defeat
The loss to Duke will undoubtedly remain a poignant memory for the Tallahassee community. It was not just the defeat itself, but the tantalizing proximity to a monumental victory that will resonate. Florida State mounted an incredible comeback from a significant deficit, fueled by Jones's 17 second-half points. With less than a minute remaining and a one-point gap, the Seminoles had a genuine opportunity to overcome the top-ranked team, a testament to their fighting spirit.
Individual Achievements and Collective Growth
Chauncey Wiggins demonstrated significant improvement, particularly in the latter half of the season, consistently scoring in double figures during the team's final six wins. Lajae Jones delivered a standout performance against Duke, showcasing his peak form. Alex Steen contributed reliably throughout the team's impressive five-game road winning streak, a feat not seen since 1992. Robert McCray capped off his season averaging 16.3 points and leading the team with 6.1 assists per game, marking the highest assist average for a Seminole since the 1996-97 season.
Coach Loucks' Impactful Inaugural Season
The Seminoles' season began with a challenging 0-5 start in ACC play, but under first-year head coach Loucks, the team underwent a remarkable transformation. They climbed from 101st to 58th in T-Rank, ranking 26th nationally in the final two months. Loucks, an FSU alumnus and two-time NBA champion, garnered four votes for ACC Coach of the Year, a significant acknowledgment of his ability to overhaul the team's strategy and culture mid-season.
A Legacy of Resilience and Unforgettable Moments
Florida State concludes its 2025-26 season with an 18-15 overall record, including an ACC Tournament victory and a near-upset against the top seed. While the seniors did not achieve their desired ending, they established a lasting legacy of a program on an upward trajectory. Their journey, marked by resilience and dramatic moments, created a season that will be remembered for its unexpected triumphs and the profound impact of its senior class.