ACC Roundup: Florida State, Miami Beat West Coast Foes

Florida State edges Cal, while Miami overcomes Stanford in conference action

Jan. 29, 2026 at 7:55am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In Wednesday's ACC basketball action, Florida State defeated Cal 63-61, while Miami downed Stanford 79-70. The Seminoles built a big first-half lead and held on late, while the Hurricanes focused their defense on slowing down Stanford freshman sensation Ebuka Okorie.

Why it matters

The wins for Florida State and Miami show continued improvement in the ACC, with the Seminoles and Hurricanes both making strides this season despite facing challenges. The results also highlight the strength of the ACC, with West Coast programs like Cal and Stanford unable to pull off road upsets.

The details

Florida State jumped out to an 18-point first-half lead over Cal but had to hold on late as the Golden Bears threatened. The Seminoles' defense clamped down in the final minutes, not allowing Cal to score in the final 3:45 aside from a pair of free throws. Miami, meanwhile, made Ebuka Okorie a focus of their defense, limiting the Stanford freshman to 8-of-21 shooting despite his 19 points. The Hurricanes overcame the absence of Chisom Okpara, the Cardinal's second-best player who is out for the season.

  • Florida State built an 18-point first-half lead over Cal.

The players

Ebuka Okorie

A freshman sensation for Stanford who scored 19 points, though on 8-of-21 shooting, in the loss to Miami.

Chisom Okpara

Stanford's second-best player who is out for the rest of the season, leaving the Cardinal shorthanded against Miami.

Luke Loucks

The rookie head coach of Florida State, who has guided the Seminoles to improved play and competitiveness this season.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The wins for Florida State and Miami demonstrate the continued growth and competitiveness of the ACC, with the Seminoles and Hurricanes both showing improvement despite facing challenges this season. The results also highlight the strength of the conference, with West Coast programs unable to pull off road upsets against their ACC counterparts.