Florida State started the season strong, defeating North Florida 119-49. The defense was superior as they only held their opponent to 34 percent shooting and opened up the game with a 19-0 lead. There are so many players to highlight in this game. Ta’Niya Latson proved to be one of the best scorers in the country with 27 points, while players like Sydney Bowles provided a big spark off the bench. However, the MVP for the Seminoles in the first game of the season was Makayla Timpson, who recorded 17 points and 22 rebounds in the win.
Seminole fans are proud that this year’s team featured more size and versatility. More size means they have an advantage over opponents. The Noles outrebounded North Florida by 29, which played a huge role in their big win. With the addition of more length and size in the frontcourt, Florida State always had a rebounding machine in Timpson, who takes pride in crashing the glass.
Makayla Timpson is great at so many things. If you ask me, I believe she is a player who does not receive her just due. On offense, Timpson is an exceptional scorer who displays the combination of facing up, playing with her back to the basket, as well as putting the ball on the floor, and making plays. Defensively, Timpson is one of the best defenders in the ACC with her rim protection, ability to switch, and communication with her teammates on that end of the floor.
Rebounding is another skill that Timpson possesses. "No rebounds, no rings," was something the great Pat Riley said years ago. That statement means a lot, as he has multiple championships to show for it. Rebounding is an important piece of when it comes to a winning team. The team that crashes the glass the hardest is likely to win.
Crashing the glass comes with pride when it comes to Timpson. It’s a motivation to not get outmuscled underneath the basket. The center position has always been the most physical in basketball. It takes strength and a dog mentality to compete under the basket. Timpson possesses both of those attributes, and it plays a role in why she’s so important to Florida State.
As the season progresses, Timpson will continue to make her impact known on the glass. It is a focal point in her game and can give Florida State an advantage in the ACC. Timpson’s 22 rebounds on Monday placed her tied for third all-time for most in a game behind Levys Torres and Laine Lasseter.