Road Struggles Continue as the Hokies Succumb to Syracuse

Virginia Tech took to the road Tuesday, traveling north to Syracuse, dropping the game 84-71.

Tech has a history of poor performances at the JMA Wireless Dome, where they haven't won since January 7th, 2020. The team has looked completely different at home and on the road, with a 12-2 and 1-9 record respectively.
 

The oscillating Hokies had issues guarding Judah Mintz off the rip. His crafty game and efficient shooting led to 16 points in the first half. The rest of the Orange shot the lights out of the dome, hitting at a 61% clip from the field. Comparatively, the Hokies shot 39% in the half, digging a deep 45-27 hole at the half.

Down 18, VT managed to hang around for a while before finally pouncing. With 13 minutes remaining, Tech strung together a few shots here and there to corral the game into single digits. Hunter Cattoor had a great span of plays to lead the team, assisting two layups, snagging a steal, and nailing a three to ignite the team.

The Hokies followed with another push in the paint, sinking five shots down low. Now a 69-62 ballgame, it looked like Tech had a real chance for a comeback. They fought but failed to get any closer than that, Syracuse continuing to hit shots with ease. An untimely drought within the last three minutes sealed the deal, ultimately falling by 13.

For the Orange, Mintz finished with 29 points and six assists on 10-17 shooting. JJ Starling had 13, while Maliq Brown and Quadir Copeland each had 12.

Sean Pedulla led the Hokies with 18, hitting 2-4 shots from deep. Lynn Kidd followed with 16 points and eight rebounds. Cattoor had 12 on 2-6 from deep, and Mylyjael Poteat had 11 with six boards.

Virginia Tech will try to right the ship on Saturday when they host Wake Forest.