The Virginia Tech men’s basketball team faced off against SMU on the road in an intense matchup that culminated in a thrilling victory for the Hokies, finishing at 76-74. This was particularly significant for Virginia Tech as it counted as a Quad 1 opportunity, showcasing their competitiveness in the season.
The final moments of the game were electric, with SMU’s Jaron Pierre Jr. securing a rebound that set the stage for a tense conclusion. With just 2.6 seconds remaining, the Hokies aimed to maintain their narrow lead after a series of clutch plays. Despite being fouled earlier, Virginia Tech’s Lawal managed to make crucial contributions throughout the game, logging impressive stats with 10 points, eight rebounds, and two blocks.
In a nail-biting finish, SMU attempted to claw back into the game but ultimately fell short. Key performers for Virginia Tech included Bedford, who led with 22 points, supported by teammates Schutt with 12, Hammond with 11, as well as Avdalas and Lawal each contributing 10 points. Their balanced scoring was pivotal in overcoming a challenging first-half that ended with the Hokies trailing by a single point at 39-38.
Virginia Tech’s second-half strategy proved effective as they surged forward, outscoring SMU and showcasing their strong defensive and offensive play. The Hokies adjusted to their shooting struggles from deep and took advantage of rebounding opportunities, showing a remarkable turnaround in performance.
This victory not only boosts Virginia Tech’s confidence moving forward but also solidifies their positioning within the highly competitive landscape of college basketball. The win is a testament to the resilience and talent of the Hokies, setting a positive tone as they continue to seek further success in the season ahead.