One way that the Virginia Cavaliers could snap a nine game losing streak was from getting hot from behind the arc. Virginia guard Sammy Zeglinski did just that, connecting on 5-of-10 from 3 point range to lead the Cavaliers past the 8th seeded Eagles 68-62. Zeglinski scored a game-high 21 points, while Mike Scott contributed 11 points and 13 rebounds. The Cavs led by as many as 11 points in the second half, and hit some timely free throws down the stretch to preserve the victory.
The Cavaliers advance to the quarterfinals to play top-seeded Duke. In their only matchup with the Blue Devils this season, the Cavs - without leading scorer Sylven Landesberg - got crushed at home 67-49. If the Cavs are to upset Duke, they’ll have to do it again without the services of Landesberg.
For the Eagles, they end their season on a down note. Any hope that the Eagles would receive a postseason tournament berth were dashed, and they’ll be a lot of work for Skinner and the Eagles to do in the offseason. The Eagles return all 5 starters for the 2010-2011 season.
In the second game of the afternoon session, the Miami Hurricanes pulled off the stunner, burying the 5th seeded Demon Deacons 83-62. The ‘Canes built up a 14 point first half lead and never looked back. Reggie Johnson scored 22 points and James Dews added 15 in the victory.
Miami advances to play the #4 seeded Virginia Tech in the Quarterfinals, tomorrow at 2pm. The 'Canes and Hokies split the regular season series, with each home team pulling out the victory. Wake Forest, on the other hand, plays the waiting game for a bid to the NCAA Tournament. Wake Forest is likely in the field of 65, but their early exit in the ACC Tournament will have an effect on their seed.
Brian Favat writes about the Boston College Eagles at BC Interruption.