Hokie ClubWASHINGTON, D.C. – Virginia Tech used strong second half shooting from the field and the line to defeat Navy, 79-70 in the opening game of the 14th Annual BB&T Classic at the Verizon Center on Sunday evening in Washington, D.C.
The Hokies, now 5-3 overall, trailed 34-28 at the intermission, but opened the second half on a 23-4 run and never trailed again. Navy was able to cut the lead to 73-69 with 39 seconds remaining, but Tech made six-of-six free throws at the end to secure the win. In all, the Hokies made their last 16 free throw attempts, were 19-of 22 free throws in the second half and 29-of-34 for the game. Tech also hit 15-of-24 field goals in the second half.
Malcolm Delaney led the Hokies with 21 points, including a perfect 11-of-11 from the line. Jeff Allen and A.D. Vassallo added 17 points each and Hank Thorns came off the bench with 10 points for Tech.
Navy, now 7-2 overall, was led by Kaleo Kina, who had 18 points and 10 rebounds. Adam Teague came off the bench to add 18 points.
The Hokies dominated on the boards, out rebounding Navy, 45-28. The Midshipmen were eight–of-23 from three-point range. Tech also controlled scoring in the paint, holding a 10-0 advantage inside.
Tech returns to action on Tuesday night, as they travel to Athens, Ga., to play defending Southeastern Conference champion Georgia. Tip off is at 7 p.m. and the game will be televised live by regional sports networks.