Virginia Takes Down North Carolina To Win ACC Championship

The North Carolina Tarheels took on the Virginia Cavaliers in the ACC championship game. The first half was played at Virginia’s pace and style. The game had no flow offensively, as it was ugly and very methodical. That would even make Cavalier Coach Tony Bennett smile. North Carolina looked uneven on offense. They only managed two fast break points in the first half, not good for a team who thrives in transition. Virginia looked like they had North Carolina on the ropes, up 10 with 2:30 until halftime. The Tarheels closed the half on a 6-0 run, going into the half only down four (34-30).

The second half started like the first with both teams trading baskets. Virginia again looked to distance themselves but North Carolina used a 7-0 run to cut the deficit to two (48-46). Down the stretch, it was a tale of big shots. With 2:43 left, the Cavaliers went up 61-52 on a Ty Jerome three pointer. The Tarheels quickly answered with a Joel Berry three pointer. Virginia simply made enough stops and free throws to win 71-63.

Virginia was led by ACC tournament MVP Kyle Guy, who had 16 points and 4 assists. Devon Hall had 15 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists, Ty Jerome contributed 12 points, 6 assists and 6 rebounds and De’Andre Hunter chipped in 10 points, including 6 clutch free throws to help seal the win. The Cavaliers shot 52.9% (9-17) from the three point range and 90.9% (20-22) from the free throw line. This win should seal the number one overall seed in the upcoming NCAA Tournament.

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