Pittsburgh Outshines Virginia to Earn Upset College Basketball Win

by

Feb 14, 2024

In a minor upset, the Pittsburgh Panthers secured a significant victory against the Virginia Cavaliers, who entered the game with a strong record of 18 wins and 6 losses, compared to Pittsburgh’s 16-7 standing. The implications of this matchup were substantial, as a win for Virginia would have positioned them in a tie for first place with powerhouse teams like Duke and North Carolina.

There was a definite missed opportunity for Virginia to climb higher in the rankings. Despite Pittsburgh’s recent struggles, their performance against Virginia showcased a team on the rise, now boasting a winning record within the ACC conference.

Virginia’s renowned Pack line defense, designed to stifle opponents’ inside scoring opportunities, failed to contain Pittsburgh’s sharpshooting from beyond the arc. Pittsburgh’s impressive 44% three-point shooting, going 14 of 32 from long range, proved to be the key to their success. With Virginia limiting fouls and free throw attempts, Pittsburgh’s ability to capitalize on perimeter shots was crucial.

While Virginia managed a respectable 50% shooting from the field, their struggles from the three-point line, converting only 4 of 14 attempts at a rate of 29%, proved costly. In college basketball, the three-point line often serves as the great equalizer, and Pittsburgh’s dominance in this aspect of the game ultimately led to their victory.

The outcome was clear: Pittsburgh’s proficiency from beyond the arc propelled them to a double-digit victory on the road against a formidable opponent. This quality win underscored Pittsburgh’s resilience and capability to compete at a high level within the ACC. As the season progresses, this upset serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of college basketball, where underdogs can defy the odds and emerge victorious against favored opponents.

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Thumbnail photo via Amber Searls-USA TODAY Sports

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