The Virginia Tech Hokies faced a challenging contest against the Syracuse Orange, concluding with a scoreboard reading 71-84. The Hokies now stand with an unaltered rank and a notable scoring split of 27 in the first half and an improved 44 in the second. Despite their efforts, they were outscored by the Orange, who tallied 45 points initially and closed with 39.

Feb 27, 2024; Syracuse, New York, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies guard Tyler Nickel is pressed between Syracuse Orange guard JJ Starling (2) and guard Judah Mintz (3) in the first half at the JMA Wireless Dome. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports

The game unfolded at the JMA Wireless Dome where over twenty thousand fans witnessed a dynamic battle between two determined teams. The Hokies showcased their offensive capabilities by sinking half of their field goal attempts, finishing with a solid field goal percentage of forty-nine. Their precision from close range was evident as they converted fifty-eight percent of their two-point attempts into twenty-five successful shots.

Virginia Tech's performance inside the paint was particularly impressive, accounting for fifty of their total points. However, it was from beyond the arc where they struggled slightly; despite making six three-pointers, they only managed to hit thirty percent from long distance. Free throw accuracy was impeccable for both teams – Virginia Tech capitalized on all three attempts from the charity stripe.

Feb 27, 2024; Syracuse, New York, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies guard Hunter Cattoor (0) takes a shot with Syracuse Orange guard JJ Starling (2) defending in the first half at the JMA Wireless Dome. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports

On defense, however, Virginia Tech could have been more assertive; they managed just one block throughout the game compared to Syracuse's three. Steals were also scarce for Virginia Tech as they recorded four against Syracuse's eight – an aspect that might have turned some possessions in their favor.

Assists are often indicative of teamwork and ball movement; here too Virginia Tech showed promise with fourteen assists but still fell short against Syracuse's eighteen. Turnovers were another area where improvement could be made; ten turnovers might not seem excessive but considering that nine came from players rather than team errors suggests room for better ball handling.

Feb 27, 2024; Syracuse, New York, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies guard Sean Pedulla drives the ball past Syracuse Orange guard Judah Mintz in the first half at the JMA Wireless Dome. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports

Rebounding is crucial to controlling any basketball game and while Virginia Tech pulled down twenty-seven boards including seven offensive rebounds which led to nine second-chance points - it wasn't enough to surpass Syracuse’s thirty-one rebounds which included five offensive ones contributing to seven second-chance points.

Looking ahead after this intense encounter on court, fans can mark their calendars for another exciting matchup featuring Virginia Tech Hokies hosting Wake Forest Demon Deacons at Cassell Coliseum on March 2nd at 5:30 PM Eastern Time. This upcoming game will be broadcasted live on The CW network ensuring fans won’t miss any action as these teams face off once again.

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