UNC 64, Virginia Tech 61
Despite 25 turnovers and lackluster play from Reyshawn Terry and Quentin Thomas, UNC was able to pull out a tough one in Blacksburg. Tyler Hansbrough continued his solid play scoring a game high 20 points while making 8-9 free throws (he has made 22 of his last 23 free throws!) David Noel was in foul trouble most of the game, but made 2-3 from beyond the arc to score 10 points.
For the second straight game, UNC came out of the gates sluggish and Va Tech took advantage. The score was 9-15 at the 15 minute mark in the first half. Quentin Thomas came in and despite getting 3 straight rebounds, he made 3 straight turnovers. Byron Sanders gave us a lift, but was only 1-4 from the free throw line.
UNC gained their composure and pulled it back to 20-19 around the 9 minute mark. Then David Noel received his 3rd foul and had to sit out the rest of the half. Terry had an awful first half but ended up scoring 9 points after playing a little better in the second half. Danny Green scored a three pointer at the end of the half to put UNC up 34-30.
The second half was more of the same. It was back and forth all night. Coach Williams yanked the starters after the first 2 minutes in the 2nd half because of uninspired play and mental mistakes. He was quoted in the post game for saying we made 5 turnovers on simple pass and catch mistakes.
At the 10 minute mark the game was tied at 48 all. Wes Miller got into the action by nailing 2 three pointers from a foot outside the NBA line. It was crazy. At the 4 minute mark, we were only up 1 point, 57-56. We had a little cushion with 1:20 left in the game with a 2 point lead and the ball. We ended the game with a lot of poise. Hansbrough made a big basket down low, we got 2 offensive rebounds, and Hansbrough nailed 2 clutch free throws.
It wasn't pretty, but I'll take a win on the road in the ACC any day.
Other key stats:
- Free Throws: 13-20 (65%)
- Field Goals: 22-46 (47%)
+ 3 pointers: 7-15 (47%)
+ Rebounds: 39 (UNC), 26 (VaTech)
- Quentin Thomas turnovers: 7
+ Bobby Frasor assists: 6
- Steals: 4 (UNC), 13 (VaTech)
