For most of the season, the Florida State Seminoles have relied on their starting lineup to carry the bulk of the scoring, playmaking, and defensive effort. But in recent games, something unusual has happened—when the starters take a breather, the bench players have stepped in and completely flipped the script. So, the question is: Have the Seminoles found their new MVPs sitting right next to Coach Leonard Hamilton?
The Bench Comes to the Rescue
Every team wants depth, but not every team gets this lucky. In some of FSU’s biggest games, the bench has gone from an afterthought to an absolute force. Whether it’s knocking down clutch three-pointers, grabbing key rebounds, or locking up opposing players on defense, the reserves have started making a name for themselves. It’s as if they sit on the bench studying the game like a final exam, waiting for their chance to prove that they should’ve been starting all along.
Take, for example, their recent game against SMU. The Seminoles’ starters were struggling to find a rhythm, and the offense looked stagnant. Then, Malique Ewin checked in and decided he wasn’t waiting for anyone’s permission to take over. He dropped 26 points, leading the Seminoles to a much-needed win. Suddenly, fans weren’t just cheering for the usual stars—they were chanting for the guys who normally only get a few minutes per game.
What’s Causing the Bench Uprising?
Some credit should go to Coach Leonard Hamilton, who has long been known for trusting his depth. Unlike many teams that rely heavily on a short rotation, Hamilton isn’t afraid to let his bench players get extended minutes. That strategy is paying off now as FSU finds itself with one of the most unexpectedly productive second units in the ACC.
It also helps that these players seem to have a chip on their shoulder. When the starters struggle, the reserves come in with fresh energy, playing with a sense of urgency that has turned the tide of multiple games. They bring hustle, effort, and just enough chaos to throw opponents off balance.
Should the Bench Get More Minutes?
At this point, you have to wonder—should the bench be playing more? If the starters are sluggish and the backups are thriving, maybe it’s time to shake things up. Either way, one thing is clear: If Florida State’s bench keeps playing like this, the real MVP might just be sitting in warmups, waiting for their next chance to shine.
