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An outstanding defensive effort and a strong performance from freshman point guard Devin Wilson wasn't enough to pull the upset as Virginia Tech fell to No. 14 Virginia 57-53 Tuesday night in Blacksburg. Wilson had five assists in setting the record for assists by a Hokie Freshman with 114, breaking the record Hank Thorns set before transferring to TCU.
The Hokies mixed defensive looks all night playing several variations of zone, man-to-man and even throwing in an occasional half court trap. Coupled with a slow-down approach on offense, Tech was able to control the pace of the game most of the night. Even forcing UVA into a long scoring drought late in the first half.
Virginia (22-5, 13-1 ACC) shot 34.8% from the field in the first half including just 3-14 from three-point range. All-ACC guard Joe Harris was held scoreless and guard Malcolm Brogdon didn't score until a desperation three-pointer went down just before halftime to bring the score to 28-21 in favor of Virginia Tech.
The Hokies (9-16, 2-11 ACC) were led by Wilson who scored 13 points and added five assists while running the offense efficiently all night, turning the ball over just one time.
Joey Van Zegeren scored a career high 13 points to go along with seven rebounds and three assists.
UVA came alive late making crucial three-point baskets including a 9-0 run late while the Hokies had a scoring drought that lasted nearly six minutes.
The Hokies return to action Saturday at 2 PM against North Carolina State in Cassell Coliseum. Just 8-8 at home, the Hokies need to win one of their final two to avoid their second losing record at home.
