No. 25 Notre Dame Dominates Florida State, 83-63 Behind Auguste’s Career Night
Zach Auguste put on a highlight filled performance while scoring a career-high 28 against the Florida State Seminoles in an 83-63 blowout against their ACC foe.
In the overtime victory against Michigan State Auguste struggled, so somehow playing against three seven-footers was the best solution?
"“I came and wanted to make a statement and just show people that I can bang with the bigs,” Auguste said."
He did just that as the Irish (10-1) put on a dunk extravaganza against Florida State, who were without their leading scorer Aaron Thomas, who was deemed ineligible for the rest of the season by the University.
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The loss of Thomas for the Seminoles (4-5) was noticeable, as players had to play extended minutes and it began to show. The Irish went on a 20-4 run midway through the second half that helped to bury Florida State. Jerian Grant and Demetrius Jackson each had 18 points for the Irish, and coach Mike Brey is having difficulty hiding his excitement about the two guards.
"“They’re assassins,” Brey said. “What they do to people and how they go after people, I’m so excited about what’s developing with those two guys. I’d certainly put them up against any backcourt in the country.”"
Notre Dame, who entered as the nation’s leader in FG percentage, shot over 50 percent again for the 10th time in 11 games. The state is even more impressive considering the Irish generally start a four guard lineup. This team doesn’t simply feed the ball into the paint. The Irish shot almost 40 percent (.389) on the night against the Seminoles, showing their versatility to score inside and out.
Pat Connaughton had an off-night shooting, but still managed to lead the team in rebounds with nine.
The Irish join NC State at the top of the ACC standings after the win. The Irish will play three more non-conference opponents before opening up the “official” ACC schedule against Georgia Tech on January 3.
UP NEXT FOR THE IRISH
Notre Dame will play Purdue in the Crossroads Classic in Indianapolis on Dec. 20.