BLACKSBURG – Taking the floor for the first time since Dec. 22 of last year, Virginia Tech fell to NC State, 68-63, inside Cassell Coliseum on Tuesday night.
The Hokies (8-6, 0-3 ACC) had two players score in double figures, led by Keve Aluma, who had 18 points and six rebounds. Storm Murphy tacked on 14 points and five assists, while Justyn Mutts added six points, seven rebounds, two steals and two blocks.
The Wolfpack held an advantage on the boards, 36-26, and added 16 second chance points off those rebounds. Three NC State players – Dereon Seabron (21), Terquavion Smith (17) and Jericole Hellems (15) – recorded 15-plus points.
How It Happened
In a game that was dictated by runs, NC State started quick with 7-0 run that was superceded by an 8-0 Tech run. Struggling to get shots to fall from inside the arc, Tech's first two-point field goal of the game didn't fall until 11:18 remained in the first half. After falling behind 29-19, the Hokies erupted with a 14-0 run in the final five minutes of the half and took a 33-29 advantage into the break.
The Wolfpack fiercely fought back in the second half and pulled off an 18-2 run to gain back control. Trailing 58-50, the Hokies rallied with their own 9-0 run to gain back control. However, NC State closed out the final 3:55 of the contest with a 10-4 sequence to earn their first win of the ACC season.
Game Notes
» The Hokies shared the ball well, recording an assist on 61 percent of made baskets.
» Keve Aluma led the Hokies with 18 points, earning his ninth-consecutive double digit performance.
» Virginia Tech got a team-high seven rebounds from Justyn Mutts.Gallery: (1-4-2022) MBB: NC State game