Tobacco Road Report

By Michael

Just a few more thoughs on the Georgia Tech loss to Virginia, and the 3:41 that may have ended the NCAA Tournament hopes of the Jackets.

I agree with Chris' write-up on the problems Tech had guarding the high pick and roll. Tech had thier best success when the big man aggressively showed on the top side of the pick, then recovered. The strong show on the top-side with a long-armed defender was enough to distract Singletary and Reynolds into 6-20 three point shooting, while the quick recover preventing dribble penetration.

Down the stretch, when Virginia's guards had nearly abandoned the three, Tech got into trouble when the big men switched the screen and roll. This led to successive penetration by the guards and opened up some opportunities for Cain and Soroye, who had been relatively quiet all day.

Cain had all seven of his points in the last 6:36 and Soroye's put back with 33 seconds left sealed the game. Virginia struggles when there's no third option on offense, but allow these other gentlemen to get going and stopping the Cavaliers becomes much more difficult.

On offense, Georgia Tech tightened up down the stretch. We were expecting a lot out of the young Jackets this year and their continued problems on the road have surprised us. In letting this one get away, Georgia Tech has likely let a tournament bid pass them by. At 6-8 in conference, a 7-9 finish would make for a long-shot bid. It's possible, but it would depend on how the conference tournament winners play out.

On the other hand, give Virginia credit. They were out of this game for 36 minutes and then found a way. Sometimes winners just find a way to get it done. Yesterday, the Cavaliers did just that.

Virginia's tough play at home has turned JPJ into a true home court advantage. With the right matchups they can do well in March, but a move past the sweet 16 will require someone else to step up besides the dynamic duo.