Rancik Scores 25 as Florida State Rout Florida A&M

Florida State opened its season with a commanding win over cross-town rival Florida A&M, taking control early in Tampa and never trailing. The Seminoles began with a 10-0 run and went into halftime ahead 54-27 before adding 59 points after the break.

Rancik, making his Florida State debut after transferring from Colorado, shot 8-for-12 and added four rebounds and two assists. He made two of five three-point attempts and seven of eight free throws. Marcis Ponder contributed 15 points and 11 rebounds, while Anthony Robinson II had 16 points and eight rebounds. Brandon Bass Jr. scored 13 in his first college game.

Florida State’s defense pressured the Rattlers and helped create opportunities at the free-throw line. The Seminoles made 26 of 34 attempts. Florida A&M’s Jaden Kempson led all scorers with 27 points, and Daisean Williford added 19. Florida State hosts Troy on Friday; Florida A&M’s next game is its home opener against Fort Valley State on Thursday.