Thursday saw FSU possibly blow there chances at an NCAA bid with a loss to Wake, while Maryland handled Georgia Tech easily and may still have a chance at a bid. In the two other games, Miami trailed for most of the game, before coming from behind to beat Clemson, and Virginia beat Virginia Tech behind JR Reynolds 23 pts.
On Friday, there are 4 games once again:
- Duke vs Miami Noon RJ/ESPN2 - Duke looks to bounce back after two consecutive losses, while Miami is playing to claim a bid by winning the tourney. Miami will have to contain Shelden Williams who Duke will have a renewed focus to get involved today. Also watch for Duke's defensive intensity early, as it will be another focus for the Blue Devils. Duke won the only matchup in Durham between these two.
- NC State vs Wake Forest 2:30 RJ/ESPN2 - This is a rematch of last Saturday's game in which Wake Forest won on senior day. The Wolfpack have been on a slide recently and have a number of injuries to deal with (Evtimov - foot, Bennerman - groin, Grant - nose). For Wake Forest, it is all about ending this year on a high note, and as most have noted, it isn't about talent for Wake, it is about focus and desire. Wake and NC State split their two matchups this season.
- UNC vs Virginia 7 RJ/ESPN2 - The Tarheels are probably the hottest team in the ACC, but Virginia did beat the Heels once this year. Virginia is playing pretty well of late, outside of a drubbing in Chapel Hill. It will be interesting to see how North Carolina handles the spotlight of their great play, and whether or not a letdown is imminent.
- Boston College vs Maryland 9:30 RJ/ESPN2 - Boston College comes into their first ACC tournament against a Maryland team that is playing pretty well right now. BC certainly can be beat, as they do not play a style that is overwhelming by any means, and the Terps have the inside depth and athleticism to matchup with the Eagles. Maryland won the only matchup between these two back in December.
Predictions
Duke over Miami by 8
NC State over Wake Forest by 3
UNC over Virginia by 12
Maryland over Boston College by 3
