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FSU rallies past Wake Forest

 
Florida State’s Aaron Thomas runs into Wake Forest’s Andre Washington during the first half.
Florida State’s Aaron Thomas runs into Wake Forest’s Andre Washington during the first half.
Published Feb. 16, 2014

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Ian Miller came off the bench to score a career-high 25, and Florida State overcame a 16-point first-half deficit to defeat Wake Forest 67-60 on Saturday night.

Aaron Thomas added 19 points and 14 rebounds for the Seminoles (15-10, 6-7 ACC), who registered their first road win since 63-53 at Miami on Jan. 15.

Despite Thomas' efforts, it was Miller who made timely plays to lead FSU. His 3-pointer with 2:12 left gave the Seminoles a 61-55 advantage and sent the fans toward the exits.

The Seminoles needed every bit of Miller's effort. FSU had lost five of its previous six games and badly needed a victory to keep its fading NCAA Tournament hopes alive.

In the opening stages, it appeared FSU's recent struggles were only going to continue.

Wake Forest (14-11, 4-8) took control with a 12-0 run as guard Coron Williams scored seven quick points to push the Demon Deacons to a 21-6 lead. The advantage grew to 24-8 on Tyler Cavanaugh's 3-pointer.

FSU responded, getting back to within 29-23 by halftime thanks to a 12-2 run sandwiched around a momentum-altering technical foul called on the Deacons' Devin Thomas.

The Seminoles took their first lead at 39-37 on Devon Bookert's jumper and held on down the stretch.

Williams led Wake Forest with 18 points and three assists.