Miami Hurricanes Edge Virginia Tech in a Nail-Biter: Key Takeaways
In a thrilling showdown, the Miami Hurricanes eked out a 67-66 victory over Virginia Tech. This win, which pushes Miami to a solid 21-5 overall and 10-3 in the ACC, showcased their ability to adapt and overcome adversity. Let's dive into the key takeaways from this gripping contest.
Winning with Versatility and Grit
The Hurricanes demonstrated their ability to win in unconventional ways, a hallmark of a resilient team. This victory marked their first win when scoring under 74 points, signaling their capacity to grind out results.
The absence of their leading scorer, Malik Reneau, for much of the second half due to injury challenges, forced Miami to innovate. Reneau's return with just under four minutes left didn't make a significant impact, which meant others had to step up.
Tru Washington and Timo Malovec filled the gap effectively, helping Miami adjust on the defensive end. The coaching staff's decision to switch on screens rather than sticking to their usual defensive strategies proved pivotal against a fluid Virginia Tech offense. This adaptability could be crucial in upcoming ACC and NCAA tournaments.
Tre Donaldson: The Game Changer
Tre Donaldson was the undisputed star of the night. Scoring a career-high 32 points, including 24 in the second half, Donaldson was unstoppable. Despite dealing with a minor injury, he showed no signs of slowing down, driving hard to the basket and hitting clutch shots.
His performance in the final moments was particularly impressive. A pull-up jumper and a crucial three-pointer tied the game, and his free throw with 12.5 seconds left secured the win. Donaldson's ability to take control in critical moments is a reassuring asset for Miami as they head deeper into the season.
Climbing the ACC Ladder
With this win, Miami has now claimed victory in four straight games and six of their last seven, positioning themselves in a tie for third in the ACC. While catching up to Duke might be a stretch, Miami's upward trajectory is promising. Securing a top-four seed in the ACC Tournament would bolster their chances for a strong postseason run.
The Hurricanes are thriving during a challenging stretch of their schedule, boasting a 3-0 record against Tier A or B opponents as per KenPom rankings. This resilience against top-tier competition is reminiscent of their 2018 form and bodes well for the remaining games.
In conclusion, the Hurricanes' ability to adapt, coupled with Tre Donaldson's standout performance, highlights their potential for a deep postseason journey. As they continue to face formidable opponents, these experiences will only strengthen their resolve and readiness for the challenges ahead.