The round of 64 in the 2017 NCAA Tournament continues to kick off unceremoniously, as No.5 Virginia defeated No.12 UNC-Wilmington 76-71 in Orlando. Despite a tough fight put up by the Seahawks, Virginia maintained control throughout.
Despite being out-rebounded (39-26) and losing the assist battle (15-9), the Cavaliers shot the ball well, hitting 50 percent of field goals and 41 percent from beyond the arc. Cavalier guards London Perrantes and Marial Shayok combined for 47 points.
The Seahawks moved the ball well, with four players scoring in double figures. But the shots just weren’t falling late, along with a horrid 64 percent from the free throw line. Despite a valiant effort late by leading scorer Chris Flemmings (18 points), turnovers and low-percentage shots proved deadly.
The loss extends the Seahawks’ NCAA Tournament first round losing streak to six, extending back to their first appearance in 2000. Virginia awaits the winner of No.4 Florida and No.13 East Tennessee State’s March 16th matchup.
