Leonard Hamilton’s explanation for why FSU lost won’t make anyone feel better
By Josh Hill
Florida State should have fouled with over 10-seconds left in a four-point game, but Leonard Hamilton refused to admit fault.
One of the most controversial decisions of March Madness was the way Florida State lost to Michigan in the Elite Eight. With over 10-seconds left in the game and trailing by only four-points, Florida State refused to foul Duncan Robinson and send Michigan to the free throw line. The decision wouldn’t have been the difference between Florida State winning or losing, but it would have extended the game and at least given the Noles a chance. It would have taken a minor miracle, but this is Mach Madness where crazier things have happened.
That didn’t happen, and the clock was bled out without a foul called.
Even as time was melting off the clock, people were screaming at FSU head coach Leonard Hamilton to call for a foul. Perhaps by design, he’s bearing the brunt of the heat for what has been deemed a debacle down the stretch.
When pressed about it after the game, Hamilton was combative and dismissive. He also admitted he felt the game was over, despite there being plenty of time left.
To be fair, it would have taken a lot for the Noles to have won. It feels more like Hamilton was protecting his players than anything else, but his explanation certainly doesn’t soothe the sting fans are feeling after the loss.
After the game, Clark Kellog and Charles Barkley sided with Hamilton, and their reasoning is at least admirable. Both agreed that a foul should have happened, but stuck up for the Hamilton by saying he was simply looking out for his kids in the locker room.
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Becoming a martyr won’t win Hamilton any points in the interim with FSU fans, but it does go a long way in reinforcing a culture that has produced the third winningest college basketball program in the ACC.