In the latest chapter of Kiwi versus Kiwi Jack Salt scored the first field goal of the game for newly crowned No 1 ranked Virginia Cavaliers when they visited Sam Waardenburg and Miami Hurricanes on Tuesday (US time).
It was Virginia’s first game carrying the top ranking in NCAA Division 1 men’s basketball since December 1982 and after losing their last outing – an overtime defeat at the hands of Virginia Tech – ensured their would be no upset and prevailed 59-50.
Virginia made a strong start jumping out to an early 13-2 lead but helped by a Waardenburg triple, with his first shot of the game, Miami narrowed to 13-12.
Aided by a 10-0 run Virginia reached half-time with a 27-16 advantage keeping Miami to their lowest first half score this season.
Another Waardenbug three reduced the Virginia advantage to 38-34 with nine minutes to play but that would be as close as Miami would get to the Atlantic Coast Conference leaders. Virginia now 13-1 in conference play with Miami slipping to 7-6.
Salt finished with 2 points, an assist and a team high 7 rebounds whilst Waardenburg finished with 6 points (2/3 FG, 2/2 3PG) and a steal.
Could they meet again in the ACC Tournament next month?
LACEY LOWDOWN 