Freshman star Jonathan Isaac shines as the ‘Noles beat Notre Dame
FSU takes down the red-hot Fighting Irish in thrilling fashion
A wave of energy coursed through the Civic Center on Wednesday night. Fans came out to show their support for a FSU basketball team sporting a 16-2 record and the number 10 ranking in the country.
There’s no doubt that Florida State showed up to this game ready to play. Facing a Notre Dame side with an undefeated record in the ACC, they knew it wasn’t going to be a walk in the park. After suffering a 16 point defeat to UNC last Saturday, the ‘Noles came back on top with the W in a close 83-80 victory over the Fighting Irish.
Battle in the first half
The first half was a back-and-forth battle, each team taking and then losing the lead. ND continued hitting 3-pt FG’s just like they have all season, finishing the half with 13 three pointers in 19 attempts.
Florida State had a different game plan, using their taller bodies to score inside the paint. Three big 3-pt FG’s by PJ Savoy propelled the ‘Noles to a 39-33 lead over the Fighting Irish going into halftime.
Johnathan Isaac’s rise to stardom
Isaac had some struggles early on, missing a few layups and giving up a turnover to finish the 1st half with only 6 points. He came back into the second half with fire, however, and was a one-man wrecking force over Notre Dame. Isaac was all over the court, sinking basket after basket, and hustling for what felt like a block every ND possession.
Isaac is quickly becoming a huge star, and would certainly be the focal point of this FSU team should he elect to stay in school. His dynamic abilities already have NBA scouts chattering.
Noles ascend to victory
As the second half began to wind down, FSU Head Coach Leonard Hamilton’s unique strategy of constant subbing began to show in the low energy of the ND side. They started missing opportunities, and the ‘Noles swarming defense began wearing them down. FSU wouldn’t let them find a rhythm and did everything they could to force the Fighting Irish to play in the paint, where the ‘Noles defense is strongest. Isaac’s second 3-pt FG of the night came at a critical moment in the game with only 3:06 left to play and gave the ‘Noles an 8 point lead.
From there, it only went downhill for ND as the home crowd of the ‘Noles were on their feet, and yelling support for their team. A big 3-pt FG by Notre Dame sharpshooter Steve Vasturia brought them within 3 points of the ‘Noles with only seconds left to go, but FSU held on and ended the game 83-80. Isaac finished the night with 23 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 blocks, and helped lead the Noles to victory.