Florida State Basketball: Analyzing Scottie Barnes impact through 2020-21 season

Coming out of Montverde, Scottie Barnes has been one of the saviors in the Seminole nation. The energy that he brings to the table is top-notch and puts many fans out of their seats. Florida State Basketball has been impressive in the ACC, standing at 12-3 overall along with 8-2 in the conference. The team’s victory Monday night over Virginia was a showing of Barnes being an active teammate by being effective on both sides of the floor.

In a well-orchestrated Leonard Hamilton system, Barnes understood that his coachable playstyle would fit right in with the team. As everyone knows how versatile he is on the offensive end, he has made more of an effort to play off the ball and provide necessary positions for good possessions. Throughout the season, we’ve witnessed Barnes become a playmaker, defensive enforcer, and much more throughout his freshman season.

Barnes is averaging 10 points per game this season along with 4.3 assists. Although he has been a difference-maker on the floor, offensively Barnes has not been as impressive as many expected. He shows to be more effective when using his size to penetrate the basket. Although he can knock down three-pointers, it hasn’t been on a consistent level for Barnes. Defenders do not seem to mind giving Barnes open looks from the perimeter. It’s a priority for him to learn to be comfortable with expanding his game and becoming a three-level scorer.

One way that Barnes has impacted the floor is his defense. We’ve seen at times Barnes picking up a defender from full court, intimidating the offensive player with his length and attention-to-detail. Also, in a zone defense, Barnes’ activity has allowed him to be a focal point on the halfcourt as well. Most times, Barnes has forced turnovers due to his physicality and length. The momentum carries over to other aspects that affect the Seminoles on both ends.

Another part of Barnes’ game that has been fascinating is his facilitating. At most times, the Noles can allow Barnes to bring the ball up the floor and create an opportunity for his teammates. Barnes shows a great connection with players in MJ Walker, Raiquan Gray, and others. As he draws attention due to his ability to break the defense, Barnes also displays tremendous court vision that allows his teammates easier opportunities to score.

Barnes has been an incredible factor in the Seminoles rotation this season. Although he has recently had to provide energy off the bench, he still impacts the game in the time he is provided by coach Hamilton. As the Noles continue through the rest of this season, Barnes should continue to improve game after game.