- Virginia overcomes Florida State in 60-57 nail-biter
- Rohde's season-best 17 points includes game-winning 3-pointer
- Victory keeps ACC Tournament first-round bye hopes alive
- Seminoles' Watkins matches Ames with 18-point effort
- Series rivalry now stands at 30-28 in Virginia's favor
In a game defined by razor-thin margins, the Virginia Cavaliers edged Florida State 60-57 in a contest that saw 10 lead changes. Andrew Rohde delivered his strongest performance of the season, sinking a contested 3-pointer with 1:12 remaining that ultimately decided the outcome. The victory propels Virginia into ninth place in the ACC standings, positioning them for critical postseason implications.
The final minutes unfolded with playoff intensity as both teams traded baskets. Florida State's Jamir Watkins nearly forced overtime with an 11-second dunk off a Virginia turnover, but Dai Dai Ames iced the game with two pressure free throws. Defensive execution proved decisive - Virginia limited FSU to 39% shooting from the field while forcing 14 turnovers.
This rivalry continues to defy predictability. Though Virginia now leads the all-time series 30-28, the aggregate scoring differential across 58 meetings stands at just six points. Tuesday's game marked the 12th consecutive matchup decided by single digits, underscoring the ACC's competitive balance. Regional analysts note that Virginia's 8-4 home record this season has been pivotal in tight conference play.
The Cavaliers' path to a first-round ACC Tournament bye now hinges on their regular-season finale against Syracuse. Historical data reveals teams earning byes win 73% more conference tournament games on average. Virginia coach Tony Bennett emphasized postgame: In March, every possession becomes magnified. Tonight showed we can execute when seasons are on the line.
Florida State faces broader questions after their third straight loss, despite Watkins' 18-point effort. The Seminoles' inability to convert late opportunities - including two missed free throws and a critical turnover in the final four minutes - highlights ongoing concerns about closing out tight games. They'll look to regroup against SMU before tournament play begins.