CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — Reniya Kelly delivered an impressive performance, scoring 20 points, while Lexi Donarski contributed 15 points, including a pivotal driving layup with just 27 seconds remaining, leading No. 12 North Carolina to a 67-62 victory over Virginia Tech on Thursday night. This win marks the Tar Heels’ fourth consecutive victory.
Alyssa Ustby had a notable game, pulling down 16 rebounds and adding four points for North Carolina (22-4, 10-3 ACC). In her fifth year, Ustby surpassed Charlotte Smith’s career total of 1,200 rebounds, moving into second place in the program’s history and securing sixth place all-time in the ACC with a total of 1,210 rebounds.
For Virginia Tech (16-9, 7-7), Carys Baker led the way with 15 points, shooting 7-of-9 from the field and 3-of-4 from three-point range. Additionally, Matilda Ekh and Mackenzie Nelson contributed 13 and 10 points, respectively, with Ekh sinking three 3-pointers during the game.
The Hokies took a four-point lead—tying their largest of the night—early in the fourth quarter thanks to Ekh’s 3-pointer and two made free throws by Carleigh Wenzel. However, as the game progressed, Virginia Tech struggled, managing only one basket from the field and accruing three turnovers in the final minutes. During this stretch, the Tar Heels seized the moment, scoring 13 of the last 17 points.
Grace Townsend initiated the scoring surge with a three-point play, followed by Nelson’s two successful free throws. Kelly then delivered a crucial 3-pointer, followed by another layup from Townsend, propelling UNC to a two-point advantage with three minutes left in the contest. Although Baker managed to tie the game at 62-62 with a jumper at the 2:51 mark, neither team could find the net again until Lanie Grant converted 1 of 2 free throws with 1:17 remaining. This free throw put the Tar Heels ahead, from which they did not falter for the remainder of the matchup.
Looking ahead, Virginia Tech will host Stanford next Thursday, while North Carolina will conclude their back-to-back home games on Sunday against their in-state rival, the 10th-ranked N.C. State.
