Hokies Win Defensive Battle With Georgia Tech, 62-61.

Virginia Tech, coming off of a heartbreaking loss to Notre Dame, welcomed in the 4th place Yellow Jackets into Cassell Wednesday night. Georgia Tech had the second ranked defense in the ACC during conference play based on FG%, and the game was played at that pace. Neither team got into a rhythm offensively. The Hokies shot below 40% for the entire game, which is concerning after a lackluster offensive performance against Notre Dame.

The Hokies found themselves in another early hole, as they allowed the Jackets to go on a 10-0 run. The response was excellent, but the gobblers still trailed 29-28 at half.

Chris Clarke, who reportedly was left out of the starting lineup due to showing up late to shootaround, energized both the crowd and the team. His two and-ones woke the team up in the first half, and his constant presence on the glass allowed the Hokies to win the rebounding battle. He finished with a double-double with 11 points and 11 rebounds.

Virginia Tech found themselves up 49-40 and firmly in control of that game. However, Georgia Tech came back and actually held a late 61-60 lead. An amazing Seth Allen layup turned out to be the game winner, as the Jackets’ last ditch attempt clanked off the side of the rim.

The Hokies travel to Clemson and UNC next week, in what will be one of the tougher stretches on the schedule.