ACC Basketball: 2021 Conference Tournament preview and predictions
Semifinal Matchups
No. 1 Virginia vs No. 4 Georgia Tech
The Cavaliers won both games against the Yellow Jackets this season, although neither were blowouts and each were low-scoring. If anyone can find a way to beat Virginia on short-notice, it’s a team like Georgia Tech that features a lineup filled with upperclassmen. That being said, UVA easily dictates the tempo when they play the Jackets and I have little reason why they can’t do that again.
Prediction: Virginia 60, Georiga Tech 54
No. 2 Florida State vs No. 6 North Carolina
These teams split on each other’s home court, with the Tar Heels clearly needing the latter game more for resume purposes. By this point, both teams will be fairly safe in regards to the NCAA Tournment, with the winner taking on Virginia. Florida State will be motivated to get some revenge against the Cavaliers in the finals but we’ve seen this season that when not focused on the opponent, they’re vulnaerable to an upset. That’s what I see happen in an instant thriller.
Prediction: North Carolina 76, Florida State 74 in OT
Finals
No. 1 Virginia vs No. 6 North Carolina
The Seminoles aren’t the only team potentially looking for revenge against Virginia. In their lone matchup of the season, UNC and its frontcourt got embarassed in a 60-48 defeat to the Cavaliers. Their bigs were throughly outplayed by Hauser and Huff, who combined for 35 points and 17 rebounds.
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I expect a much better performance this time around for the Tar Heels frontcourt, who if can win the inside battle would have a great shot at winning. There has to be some degree of March Madness craziness among the power conferences and while I’m not willing to pull the trigger on Duke doing it, I think that UNC has the ability and frontcourt depth to make a run like this.