Clemson-FSU Post-Game Quotes

Feb. 22, 2003

Head Coach Larry Shyatt Clemson vs. Florida State

“I thought Edward Scott had one of his finest games. His defense (Tim) Pickett, especially early in the game had a lot to do with our start. He controlled the ball well in our offense. Florida State does a good job fronting the post players, so your perimeter has to be effective.

“We made some changes in our offense today in that we ran some isolation for Edward and our perimeter players. We got some great screens from our post players that opened up some opportunities for our perimeter players.

“The first half was as good an all-around performance as we have had in an ACC game this year.

“I thought the crowd was outstanding today. They have stayed with us all year. It was not easy to come to an early Saturday game with poor weather outside. I hope every seat in the house is filled when we play NC State on March 5 for Senior Night.

“Shawan Robinson made some big plays in the second half. He continues to play with confidence. Olu Babalola is getting better and better. He has played with aggression on defense all year, but he is showing some confidence driving to the basket. That is the second straight Saturday he has had a highlight film drive and dunk.

“We are playing well now, but I don’t see any difference in the way this team practices. They have been consistent in their approach to the game all year. Even when we were losing we knew we were giving great effort in practice and in games. “

“We have a great opportunity Tuesday night when we play a top 15 Maryland team on the road. We look forward to the challenge.

Notes: Edward Scott scored 29 points and now has 105 points for his last four games. Scott has had his two highest scoring games this season in his last two games….Clemson has now won three straight regular season ACC games for the first time since the 1996-97 season when Clemson won its first five ACC games of the season…Clemson has now won three straight ACC games in February for the first time since February of 1990…today’s victory clinches a winning season for the Tigers, the programs first since 1998-99….the five ACC wins are the most for the Tigers since Clemson won five league games in 1998-99.

Leonard Hamilton Florida State

“I spent extra time with our radio and TV and I was hoping you guys would be gone by the time I got here (he said kiddingly).

“Today we played against a team with a hunger and a desire. When a team has a goal, and a desire it is much more difficult. Every time we failed to contest a shot they made us pay. They were in a zone.

“We did not display the grit that we have played with at other times earlier this season. I am glad to see the good job Larry Shyatt is doing. I am also glad to see that Clemson is coming together as a team at this time in the season.

“As a coach you like to see the kind of mindset Clemson shows at this point in the season.