Sat Dec 07 21:30:00 UTC 2024: ## Pitt Panthers Escape with Thrilling Victory Over Virginia Tech
**Pittsburgh, PA** – The University of Pittsburgh men’s basketball team secured a dramatic 64-59 win over Virginia Tech on Saturday, overcoming a sluggish start and a significant deficit in the second half. Jaland Lowe led the charge for the Panthers, delivering a game-winning performance with a late-game scoring spree and crucial defensive plays.
The Hokies dominated the first half, shooting 52% from the field and building an eight-point lead. Pitt struggled offensively, particularly from three-point range, making only 5 of 27 attempts throughout the game. However, a late surge sparked by Lowe and Guillermo Diaz Graham propelled the Panthers to a comeback.
Trailing by five points with under 14 minutes remaining, Pitt went on a decisive 15-3 run. Lowe’s clutch baskets, including a left-handed layup over two defenders, and Diaz Graham’s key defensive plays, including a block, turned the tide. Lowe’s impressive performance included several steals and fastbreak scores, ultimately leading the team to victory.
The win brings Pitt’s record to 8-2 on the season. The Panthers now look ahead to their next matchup against Eastern Kentucky on Wednesday, December 11th. While the team celebrates this hard-fought win, the coaching staff continues to actively recruit, using the transfer portal to identify and add more talent to the roster, including a potential kicker. The team also faces ongoing roster adjustments with several players entering the transfer portal themselves. Despite recent setbacks, including a lopsided loss to Mississippi State, the Panthers showed resilience and determination in their victory over Virginia Tech.
First Piper 