FSU Basketball: How Freshman AJ Swinton adds tremendous value to Noles

College Basketball season is almost here. If you’re like me then you’re anxious to see the first tipoff of the new season. It’s all smiles with the Florida State Seminoles. While some may not be high on the team this upcoming season, fans have hope that this can be a great year for the program. 

One thing that I continue to highlight is the guard play of the Seminoles. Coach Hamilton and his staff did a terrific job of adding shot-creators and ball-handlers to this roster. One key addition this upcoming season will be freshman wing AJ Swinton, who committed to the program in August 2023. 

If you’re a fan of a player who can score anywhere on the floor, that is what AJ Swinton can do. The 6’6 wing was a spectacular talent at Bishop O’Connell High School who also became a McDonald’s All-American in his last season. Fans and insiders continued to be impressed with Swinton after his commitment to Florida State. His growth as a high school star allowed many to understand what a steal Coach Hamilton got in a great player. 

Swinton is an elite three-level scorer. What stands out is his confidence to go out and compete on the offensive end. When his number is called upon, Swinton doesn’t mind creating plays for his team. He has the combination of self-creation off the dribble, plays well without the ball, and applies great rim pressure when attacking. 

As Swinton decided where to play for college, he saw the vision of playing at Florida State. He wanted to help the program reemerge as a contender while also understanding that he could grow as a player as well. “It’s called Big Guard U for a reason,” when making his decision, Swinton was reminded of the likes of Scottie Barnes, Devin Vassell, MJ Walker, and several elite guards and wings who came from Florida State. The program may not be at the top of the ACC but it’s still a great destination for young guards to develop. 

Swinton’s presence will benefit many of his teammates this season. But not more than Jamir Watkins. For most of the last season, Watkins was the team’s primary ball handler. There weren’t many plays that could be initiated in the halfcourt offense without Watkins’ creation. Luckily, this season is different. The offense doesn’t have to run through Watkins every possession. Swinton is a guy who can take pressure off the senior guard. Watkins and Swinton sharing the floor together adds tremendous versatility on offense for the Seminoles. 

AJ Swinton could be one of the best freshmen in the country. In a competitive Atlantic Coast Conference, fans and insiders will certainly take notice as Florida State looks to display a great season. Is freshman of the year possible for Swinton? We’ll find out as the season kicks off on November 4th.