Virginia Advances to ACC Semifinals with Gritty Win Over NC State
In a hard-fought battle in Charlotte, the No. 2 seed Virginia Cavaliers secured their spot in the ACC semifinals. They await the winner of the Miami and Louisville matchup on Friday night. This victory wasn't as smooth as past encounters with NC State, but it showcased Virginia's resilience and adaptability.
Slow Start, Strong Finish
The Cavaliers didn't have the blazing start they might have hoped for. Early struggles saw them shooting just 1 for 4 and trailing 9-5 by the first media timeout.
Johann Grünloh's two quick fouls added to the early woes. It wasn't until Sam Lewis hit a crucial three-pointer with 6:40 left in the first half that UVA took their first lead at 25-24.
Thijs De Ridder's corner three just before halftime gave the Cavaliers a slight edge, and Ugonna Onyenso's timely block ensured they held onto that lead as they headed into the locker room.
Second Half Surge
The second half saw a more determined Virginia team. A 9-0 run, fueled by back-to-back buckets from Grünloh, helped the Cavaliers extend their lead to ten points. This stretch of play was pivotal, as it allowed Virginia to maintain control despite NC State's efforts to close the gap.
Virginia's ball handling improved significantly, reducing turnovers from six in the first half to just three in the second. They also capitalized on second-chance opportunities, scoring nine points in this category after a first half with none.
Three-Point Prowess
Virginia's sharpshooting from beyond the arc was a game-changer. They shot 50% from three in the first half and finished the game with an impressive 48%, sinking 12 threes. These timely shots kept the momentum in their favor and were crucial in securing the win.
Dominance on the Boards
Despite being the ACC's top offensive rebounding team, Virginia struggled on the boards initially, grabbing only three offensive rebounds in the first half. However, they turned it around in the second, securing nine second-chance points and asserting their dominance inside.
Onyenso's Defensive Masterclass
Ugonna Onyenso was a defensive powerhouse, tying his previous record with four blocks in the first half alone. His critical block with just over 15 seconds left in the game helped preserve Virginia's lead. Onyenso's contributions didn't stop there; he also led the team with six rebounds and played a key role in maintaining defensive stability.
Grünloh's Impact Inside
Once Grünloh returned to the court, Virginia's offense found a new gear. His presence inside was a constant challenge for NC State, and his scoring helped spark that crucial second-half run. Virginia capitalized on this, scoring 30 points in the paint by the end of the game.
Team Effort and Key Contributions
Sam Lewis and Malik Thomas were instrumental in Virginia's success. Lewis' movement and two early threes set the tone, while Thomas contributed 16 points, including clutch free throws, along with four rebounds, a steal, and two assists.
Thijs De Ridder and Dallin Hall were everywhere on the court. Hall's playmaking was evident with five assists, alongside his eight points and five rebounds. De Ridder added 13 points, showcasing his versatility with a block, a steal, and four rebounds.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, Virginia moves forward with momentum and confidence. Their adaptability and depth were on full display, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting semifinal matchup.