Florida State isn't just on a roll on the basketball court, but now starting to win over a talent who reclassified.
Florida State men's basketball is spreading enthusiasm across the campus and Tallahassee, all thanks to its sudden surge under Luke Loucks.
Now the Seminoles' winning roll has helped win over a four-star shooting guard.
Martay Barnes went from 2028 talent to reclassifying for the 2027 class. He tells Travis Branhan of 247Sports that FSU is officially sticking out for him as a school of interest.
"Florida State stands out for their player development and how they prepare guys for the next level," Barnes said.
The standout from Westside High in Atlanta likely is taking a liking to the NBA talent who came out of FSU. Names like Terance Mann (Brooklyn Nets) and Scottie Barnes (Toronto Raptors) come to mind.
The head coach Loucks can pull off a major recruiting coup if he lands Barnes for the '27 class. The highly coveted shooting guard already scouted how Loucks uses his guards.
"I respect their approach and the way they let guards play with freedom, but still hold them accountable defensively," Barnes said.
The SG even has familiarity with Brandon Bass Jr. of FSU -- having played with him before in the AAU circuit.
Meanwhile, he explained his decision on why he's choosing to skip an academic grade.
"The conversations with my family and coaches were about being ready for the next step," Barnes said regarding reclassifying.
He's laid out his vision for how he wants to attack the hardwood when he gets to the collegiate level.
"On the court, I'm prepared to compete at that next level. Off the court, I'm in a place where it's about challenging myself and continuing to grow. I'm confident in the work I'll put in," Barnes said.
But for Loucks and FSU to swoop up the Atlanta talent, the Noles have to fend off one Southeastern Conference challenger. Let alone one that brings its own Final Four history.
The Auburn Tigers are courting Barnes fiercely too. And Barnes has taken a liking to what the Tigers have to offer.
"Auburn stands out because of the energy around the program. The atmosphere, the way they compete in the SEC, and how they develop guards really caught my attention. I like how hard they play on both ends of the floor," Barnes said.
But from what it looks like, Barnes has created a two-team race involving FSU and Auburn for the time being.
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