FSU basketball defense carries Noles to win over Rice Owls

FSU basketball got its second win this week with a solid 73-65 win over the Rice Owls in front of the home crowd on Saturday night. FSU led 73-63, and a Rice layup with five seconds remaining cost the Noles from covering the betting spread(sorry FSU bettors).

FSU didn't shoot the ball particularly well, only shooting 42.6 percent. Their shooting woes from three-point land continued, only making 5 of 19.

The Noles did a great job getting to the free-throw line but only made 22 of 34 attempts.

However, their defense was the major difference. They held the Rice Owls to 33 percent shooting, forced 17 turnovers, and scored 23 points off of those turnovers.

The FSU defense held the Owls to 35 percent shooting and 32 percent behind the arc. The Noles had seven blocks and nine steals.

FSU also dominated in the paint, scoring 30 points inside, and only had 13 turnovers.

Jamir Watkins had an outstanding game, scoring 30 points with six rebounds. He was 8 of 14 shooting but left a lot of points on the floor by missing eight free throws.

Malique Ewin had 11 points and seven rebounds. Taylor Bol Bowen didn't replicate his production from the first game but chipped in with six points and seven rebounds. Justin Thomas had six points.

FSU held a 33-23 halftime lead and slowly built their first-half lead and never trailed in the game.

FSU basketball will have a quick turnaround when they host Tarelton State on Tuesday at 7 p.m.