Georgia Tech Ends Slump with Narrow Victory
In a thrilling match-up on Saturday, Georgia Tech managed to halt their three-game slump with a narrow 78-74 victory over North Carolina State. The Yellow Jackets’ success was largely driven by Kowacie Reeves Jr., who tallied 21 points, and Lamar Washington, contributing 18 points. Their second-half performance was particularly notable, with both players combining for 28 points.
Key Performers
Key support came from Akai Fleming, who scored 16 points, while Jaeden Mustaf recorded an impressive first career double-double with 11 points and 10 rebounds, bolstering Georgia Tech’s efforts.
For the Wolfpack, Quadir Copeland led the scoring with 16 points, while teammates Paul McNeil Jr. and Ven-Allen Lubin each chipped in 12 points. N.C. State, who had been riding a two-game win streak and had five victories in their last six games, struggled to maintain momentum.
Turning Point
The game turned in favor of the Yellow Jackets when Reeves nailed a pivotal three-pointer with less than ten minutes remaining, marking Georgia Tech’s return to the lead for the first time since the end of the first half. This shot sparked a 12-2 run that elevated the team’s score to 65-58. Despite a shaky performance at the free-throw line late in the game, Georgia Tech managed to keep their lead intact.
N.C. State fought back, reducing the deficit to just four points in the closing seconds of the game, thanks to back-to-back three-pointers by Copeland. However, Georgia Tech’s Washington sealed the win with a critical steal and subsequent free throw after the Wolfpack failed to convert on two final three-point attempts.
Game Summary
The match began with N.C. State taking an early lead through threes from Alyn Breed and Copeland, but Georgia Tech quickly responded with a 12-point run that included two three-pointers from Fleming. The first half closed with N.C. State taking a narrow 35-34 lead following a last-second layup from Copeland, laying the groundwork for the intense second half.
Looking Ahead
Moving forward, Georgia Tech will be looking to build on this momentum as they face Clemson at home next Saturday, while N.C. State prepares for an away game against Clemson on Tuesday.
