The game of basketball is full of ebbs and flows, a game of runs and in Georgia Tech’s 75-68 overtime victory North Carolina State, this was the case.
Early on, it looked like North Carolina State was primed for the upset of Georgia Tech. They seemed to handle Georgia Tech’s press with calmness and composure as they were able to get out in front and establish a 36-31 lead going into halftime.
“I wasn't pleased with our defense in the first half,” said Georgia Tech coach Machelle Joseph.
As the game ensued, Georgia Tech remained firm on its commitment to its trademark defense. They continued to play aggressive on ball defense while sticking to its identity of pressing nonstop. And with about 10 minutes left in the second half, it seemed like it was starting to wear out North Carolina State as they had established a six point lead. With momentum as its hand, Georgia Tech seemed poised to finally pull away from the pesky Wolfpack.
But as with any Kellie Harper coached team, North Carolina State continued to battle back and fight. With about 2:16 left in the game and being down by nine, it seemed like Georgia Tech had the game fully in the balance and under control. However, Harper’s team showed the fight and grit that made her a household name during her playing days at Tennessee as they was able to tie the game and push the game into overtime.
Yet there would be only one run in overtime and that was by Georgia Tech as they outscored North Carolina State 14-7.
“I was very pleased with our toughness,” said Joseph. “We were a better team in overtime.”
Sasha Goodlett led Georgia Tech with 21 points and 9 rebounds while her teammate Chelsea Regins had a double double with 10 points and a game-high 11 rebounds. Metra Walthour also had 11 points for the Jackets. Marissa Kastanek led North Carolina State with 21 points and Myisha Goodwin-Coleman had 15 points.
Kastanek got injured in overtime and left the game with an ankle injury.