Coming into Saturday’s matchup, Virginia was 0-3 on the road in ACC play, losing each matchup by double-digits. The Cavaliers began the season hot but have struggled as of late. Virginia has been starting games without a true center and has struggled with defense and rebounding around the rim. In their previous matchup against Virginia Tech, Tony Bennett changed the lineup with 6’8 forward Jordan Minor starting.
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Photo Cred: USA Today
Minor had barely played in the beginning of the season, but the move paid off, as he recorded 16 points. If Virginia was to take down Georgia Tech on the road, Minor would need to put in a solid performance. Georgia Tech exploited the Cavaliers lack of size early in the game. They were able to drive into the paint and find open three pointers.
After carving a ten point lead, the Cavaliers began to heat up from beyond the arc. Reece Beekman and Andrew Rhode made threes to cut the lead to four. Issac McKneely hit two of his own, and Virginia ended the half on a 12-0 run. Throughout the second half Virginia continued to find open looks. Beekman ended the game with 20 points, and McKneely added 19.
Photo Cred: UVA Sports
McKneely has shot over 48% from three this year, proving to be a catalyst for an otherwise stagnant offense. Despite only scoring 9 points, Ryan Dunn was arguably the best player on the court. Dunn grabbed ten rebounds and played phenomenal defense. His athleticism was on full display as he recorded multiple blocks. Minor provided another solid performance, with 11 points in 24 minutes.
Virginia is at their best when they can control the tempo. The Virginia Cavaliers picked up a much needed road victory, defeating the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets 75-66. Virginia is back in action next at home against NC State on the 24th, where they will look to avenge a 16 point road loss just weeks ago.
