ACC Basketball: 2021 Conference Tournament preview and predictions
Quarterfinals
No. 1 Virginia vs No. 8 Syracuse
If you’re going to beat Virginia and its packline defense, you have to be able to make some three-pointers, something Syracuse can do when hot. But the Cavaliers know that and know how to defend what the Orange does, evident by holding them to 5/24 from three-point range in the 23-point defeat earlier in the season. They’ll be desperate to win but the frontcourt advantage should make it another easy win for the top seed.
Prediction: Virginia 74, Syracuse 61
No. 4 Georgia Tech vs No. 5 Clemson
The Tigers and Yellow Jackets split their regular-season matchups, with Clemson getting a two-point win a couple of weeks ago. Right now, Georgia Tech is hot and Clemson is lukewarm at best and they’re not built to win games on consecutive days unless Simms can get some help on offense. With Wright playing at an elite level, look for the Jackets to advance.
Prediction: Georgia Tech 73, Clemson 66
No. 2 Florida State vs No. 10 Duke
These two teams actually didn’t see each other after the Seminoles had to go on a pause. They’ll be a bit rusty in this one, while the Blue Devils will be riding some momentum. But after giving up the regular season title to Virginia, I have a feeling that Florida State will be angry and wanting to be the one to finally take out Duke, ending theit March Madness hopes. Hurt will be in a for hurting against the big depth of the Seminoles.
Prediction: Florida State 74, Duke 67
No. 3 Virginia Tech vs No. 6 North Carolina
The good news for the Hokies is that they didn’t have players test positive for covid during this latest pause. The bad news is that they’ll still be very rusty overall in this game and will be facing the Tar Heels for the first time this season. Aluma and Justyn Mutts of the Hokies will be dealing with a tough frontcourt for 40 minutes and I have a feeling that it’ll be too much after a long break.