A late first-half run by Virginia Tech could have done Miami in. The Canes won 82-74 but very easily could have lost. In fact, they probably should have. The Canes did start off pretty good though.
The Hurricanes were up 23-19 with 8:23 to play in the first half. Solid ball movement, some tough shots fell, and the defense was solid as well. The rest of the first stanza was not as good for the Canes.
The Hokies went on a 16-3 run for the remainder of the first 20 minutes to lead 35-26. The key? Virginia Tech’s team defense. Miami went a pitiful 0-12 from the field to finish the first half. Give credit to the Hokies for the effort, but 0-12?
Goodness, did things change in the second half, albeit with a different type of shooting. Free throw shooting, that is. Here’s a scenario that helped it happen and spark a key run to give the Hurricanes momentum.
With VT leading 65-60, Norchad Omier knocked down two free throws after driving to the basket. A few moments later, Omier steals the ball and goes the distance for a dunk. It’s 65-64 Hokies with 3:48 remaining. Surely, the Hokies will get a good shot now, right?