Panthers Dominate Hokies in High-Scoring Petersen Events Center Showdown

In a display of offensive firepower, the Pittsburgh Panthers outscored the Virginia Tech Hokies 79-64 at the Petersen Events Center. The Panthers, with their record now standing at an impressive 22-4, showcased their dominance on both ends of the court. The Hokies fell to a 17-9 record after struggling to keep pace with the home team's scoring.

The first half ended in a deadlock at 36 points each, but it was after halftime that the Panthers truly took control of the game. With an explosive second half, they racked up an additional 43 points against the Hokies' 28. The Panthers' shooting was particularly effective; they hit over half their field goal attempts with a solid shooting percentage of fifty-one percent from the field and forty-three percent from beyond the arc.

Defensively, Pittsburgh also excelled by blocking seven shots and making four steals which contributed to ten points off turnovers. Their defensive rebounding was outstanding as they collected thirty-one boards on that end alone, part of a total rebound count that reached forty-two compared to Virginia Tech's twenty-eight.

The home team's balanced attack saw them match Virginia Tech's thirteen assists while maintaining better ball security despite committing ten turnovers themselves. Notably efficient inside, both teams scored thirty-two points in paint; however, Pittsburgh capitalized on their opportunities more effectively.

Virginia Tech struggled from three-point range throughout this contest with only fifteen percent accuracy compared to Pittsburgh’s impressive forty-three percent. Despite making more free throws than Pittsburgh (thirteen out of seventeen for seventy-six percent), it wasn't enough to close down or challenge Pittsburgh’s lead during any significant stretch of play.

Pittsburgh’s next challenge will be away against Clemson Tigers at Littlejohn Coliseum on February 27th at 7:00 PM EST. Fans can catch all action live as it unfolds on ACC Network.