Ponder Makes Immediate Impact in Florida State Debut

The 7-foot, 285-pound center wasted little time showing his strength around the basket in his first official college game. Ponder grabbed offensive rebounds and converted them into close-range scores, finishing with a double-double and a block in Florida State’s season-opening victory at Benchmark International Arena.

Ponder had 11 points and seven rebounds in 10 first-half minutes. Fans chanted his teenage nickname, “Baby Shaq,” as he went to the free-throw line. The comparison to Shaquille O’Neal reflects Ponder’s size and physical approach, with his work focused largely in the paint: setting forceful screens, finishing inside and pursuing rebounds.

The freshman was ranked No. 43 in the 2026 class by 247Sports. He chose Florida State over several other college programs last summer, after Luke Loucks became head coach. Ponder also drew attention in an exhibition against Auburn, recording 13 points and 21 rebounds, including 12 on offense.

Florida A&M was ranked No. 323 by KenPom.com, and a much tougher test is coming quickly. Florida State is scheduled to face No. 1 Florida on November 10. The Gators have an experienced frontcourt, setting up a major early challenge for Ponder and the Seminoles as they seek their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2021.