Virginia (21-6, 8-5 ACC) made a defensive stand when it mattered most, and held on for a 61-59 road win over rival Virginia Tech. The Cavaliers were led by Mike Scott’s 20 points and 9 rebounds.
Virginia Tech controlled much of the first half thanks to some hot shooting from outside. The Hokies hit 6 of their first 8 three-point attempts.
Leading 21-17, Virginia Tech went on a 10-3 run to open their largest lead of the game at 31-22 with 3:30 left in the first half. Virginia however answered with a 10-4 run of their own, which included a last second shot by Jontel Evans as the half expired.
With UVa leading by 6 with less than 2 minutes remaining, Virginia Tech started fouling. Akil Mitchell twice went to the line, missing the front end of a one-and-one each time.
The misses allowed the Hokies to climb back thanks to Erick Green’s driving ability, pulling within 2 at 61-59. Virginia Tech got the ball back with 17 seconds remaining but failed to get off a final shot.
Green led Virginia Tech with 19 points. Dorenzo Hudson added 9. The Hokies had one field goal in the final 13 minutes of the game.
Brogdon missed the first of a one-and-one but a full court heave came up 10 feet short.
Tech (15-13, 4-9) plays Duke at Noon Saturday. The game will be televised by the ACC network.
