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The Hokies, who had a 7-7 conference record, looked to beat Clemson for the second time this season. Like the first meeting, the game went back-and-forth at a frenetic pace in the first half, as the two teams combined for 79 points in the period. The Hokies’ hot shooting carried over from Louisville on Saturday, as they shot 60% from the field and 72.7% from three-point range.
However, both teams cooled off in the second half. Clemson’s shooting efficiency dropped 23.4% and the Hokies went just 4-11 from three in the final 20 minutes. That fourth three pointer turned out to be crucial. And it was from no one else but Seth Allen. The redshirt has been clinical in the clutch this season, as the game-winner tonight marks his fifth one on the season.
Allen did not have a great game by any means. He only scored 8 points and had three turnovers. Zach LeDay picked up the slack in that regard. The forward got the best of Jaron Blossomgame, as LeDay led the team in both points and rebounds with 19/8.
Both games against the Tigers this season ended up with one-point Virginia Tech victories. Since losing a close game to Notre Dame, the Hokies have been outstanding in tight contests.
The gap between most of the ACC is razor thin. Coaching can make the difference. Virginia Tech is 6-1 in one possession games. Just saying.
— Josh Parcell (@JoshParcell) February 22, 2017
Meanwhile, Clemson falls to 1-7 in games decided by 5 points or less.
In the end, the Hokies battled and won a game that will surely help their resume. With the win, Virginia Tech moves to 8-7 in the conference and has a great opportunity to finish with double digit conference wins for the second straight year.