BERKELEY, Ca. – Virginia Tech earned its 20th win of the season Sunday, pulling away late to defeat California 68-58 at Haas Pavilion.
The Hokies became the third Atlantic Coast Conference team to sweep the league’s California road trip this season, joining Duke and Louisville.
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Carys Baker opened the scoring on an inbounds play and later sparked a late first-quarter push, but Virginia Tech trailed 13-12 after one. Samyha Suffren scored the Hokies’ final four points of the period, including a driving layup in the final minute.
The Hokies stayed within striking distance early in the second quarter before reclaiming the lead with a 10-0 run fueled by Suffren, who scored eight straight points during the surge. Virginia Tech carried a 33-29 advantage into halftime.
Tech extended its lead to seven early in the third quarter following a Baker basket and a free throw from Leila Wells. California responded with a 7-0 run to pull even at 38, and the teams traded baskets the rest of the period. Kilah Freelon’s driving layup gave the Hokies a 44-43 edge heading into the fourth.
The Golden Bears briefly moved back in front to open the final quarter, but Virginia Tech answered with a 3-pointer from Carleigh Wenzel and another drive by Suffren to regain control. The Hokies sealed the win at the free-throw line, scoring 13 of their final 19 points from the stripe to close out the 68-58 victory.