PITTSBURGH – Duncan Powell delivered a stellar performance with career-highs of 26 points and six three-pointers, while Lance Terry contributed 20 points, leading Georgia Tech to a 73-67 victory over Pittsburgh on Tuesday night.
In a season marked by road challenges, Georgia Tech (14-14, 8-9 ACC) secured their second conference road win in 11 attempts. This victory elevates the Yellow Jackets to a .500 overall record, a milestone not reached at this stage of a season since 2020-21.
With just 55 seconds remaining, Naithan George hit two critical free throws to edge Georgia Tech ahead to a 69-67 lead. Pittsburgh had potential opportunities, including a clear layup chance by Ishmael Leggett that frustratingly slipped off the rim. George then grabbed the rebound and assisted Terry in scoring a fast-break layup, extending the lead to 71-67 with 22.8 seconds left.
Pittsburgh’s final possession was fruitless despite four attempts, until Baye Ndongo claimed the defensive rebound, was fouled, and successfully made two free throws. George finished the game with 16 points, six rebounds, and five assists. Ndongo contributed 11 points, 17 rebounds, and three blocks, playing a crucial role in Georgia Tech’s surge with victories in five of their last seven encounters.
For Pittsburgh (16-12, 7-10), Jaland Lowe stood out with 25 points and eight assists, while Leggett, who initiated the Panthers’ strong start with 10 of the opening 21 points, ended the game with 20 points. Recently, the team has faced difficulties, losing six of their last eight games.
During the match, Lowe scored 12 of Pittsburgh’s 14 points in just over five minutes, orchestrating a personal 7-0 run. Brandin Cummings contributed by sinking a three-pointer with 5:34 to play, pushing Pittsburgh to a narrow lead of 59-58, their first since a 2-0 start.
Both Georgia Tech and Pittsburgh have three regular-season games left. Georgia Tech will face N.C. State at home on Saturday, while Pittsburgh will travel to compete against No. 19 Louisville.
