2021 ACC Tournament: Quarterfinals Recap (3-11-21)
By: Joe Dillard Jr.
Headline Photo Courtesy: ACC
Day 3 started off with fireworks as a desperate Syracuse team look to prove their worth to punch a ticket into the Big Dance. Some may think they did just enough with this ACC tournament performance proving to the committee they deserve a shot however they still have a sour taste in the mouth as Reece Beekman goes 1 for 6 but that one was the dagger in the Tournament hopes for the Orangemen in a 69-72 loss to the number 1 seed Cavaliers.
The 2021 ACC regular season champs kicked off their tournament run with a gritty win as only champs can as they are the reigning National Champs. However, it is the ACC and its one of the toughest tournaments to win. Sam Hauser and Jay Huff combined for 34 points and 17 rebounds dominating the front court.
In the second game, where Georgia Tech almost gave away a lead but thanks to the crafty point guard Jose Alvarado to lead the Yellow Jackets past Miami 70-66. Game was pretty even however Miami had too many turnovers that limited opportunities to score. Georgia Tech will face Virginia in the first of 2 semi final games. There was no game three with the unfortunate positive test from a member in the Duke program forcing them to forfeit the game which has Florida State advancing to the semifinals without even playing a game.
The final game of the evening was a great battle as Virginia Tech came out physical and going blow for blow with the Tarheels. With the Hokies leading 35-32 at the half, it was obvious that the Tarheels came out determined in the second half to wear down a hard fighting Tech squad that shows promise for the future. Too many big bodies as Carolina forced their depth, size and talent to prevail 81-73 led by R.J. Davis career high 19 and Armando Bacot had his second double double as the Tarheels advance to play Florida State in the second semifinal game of the ACC tournament. The games are scheduled to tip off at 6:30 for the first game and 9:30 for the second on ESPN.
