Key takeaways from Georgia Tech's 65-53 home opener win over Boston College

Georgia Tech secured its first conference victory of the season with a commanding 65-53 win over Boston College. The Yellow Jackets showcased their ability to close out games, making six of their last eight field goals and effectively slowing down the Eagles. With this win, Georgia Tech now holds a 10-2 record on the season and is set for a crucial matchup against Syracuse on Tuesday night. Let's break down the key takeaways from this home victory.

Lamar Washington closes out the game for Georgia Tech

Lamar Washington played a pivotal role in sealing the win for the Yellow Jackets. He hit three consecutive buckets to establish a 60-49 lead, displaying the poise of an experienced player when the game was on the line. Washington finished with 15 points in the second half and was a central focus for Georgia Tech's offense. His clutch three-pointer late in the game provided much-needed breathing room for the team. In addition to his scoring, Washington contributed 12 rebounds and five assists. As one of the standout players Georgia Tech has acquired through the portal in 2025, Washington has been instrumental in ACC play and continues to deliver when it matters most.

Georgia Tech defense locks up

The defensive performance by Georgia Tech was nothing short of impressive. They held Boston College to just 18-of-66 shooting from the field, with only four made three-pointers. The Yellow Jackets forced 10 turnovers and made it difficult for the Eagles to get easy shots at the rim or dominate the paint. Their ability to swarm around BC players made it tough for them to secure quality looks. Head coach Damon Stoudamire has emphasized the importance of defense all season, and this game was a testament to that philosophy. It’s a positive sign that Georgia Tech can win games with strong defensive play, especially as they face tougher competition in conference play.

The Yellow Jackets transition offense was stellar

Throughout the game, Georgia Tech displayed a fast-paced and aggressive style of play. This approach led to numerous easy points. When the team trailed 48-42, they launched an 8-2 run fueled by their defense and transition buckets, which helped them regain control of the game. Georgia Tech had a 23-0 advantage in fast-break points over Boston College. Their ability to push the ball in transition and find open shots was particularly valuable when they struggled from the field. The defense also fueled their offense, as Georgia Tech scored 11 points off turnovers. This performance highlights the team's adaptability and shows that they can win games even when their shooting isn’t at its best.

Cole Kirouac provides valuable minutes for the Yellow Jackets off the bench

With Mouhamed Sylla and Peyton Marshall sidelined due to injuries, Cole Kirouac stepped up and made the most of his extended playing time. He contributed hustle plays and key moments during the final stretch of the game. Kirouac energized the team with a poster slam over two defenders, which sparked momentum for the Yellow Jackets. He finished with a +10 rating while on the floor, recording two points, six rebounds, and two assists. His development remains crucial for Georgia Tech, especially as they navigate through injury challenges.

Georgia Tech dominates the glass

The Yellow Jackets were dominant on the boards, finishing with a +15 rebound advantage overall. More impressively, they held a 38-20 edge in defensive rebounds. This strength on the glass allowed them to secure the paint after missed shots. While Boston College managed 13 second-chance points, Georgia Tech shut them down in the final five minutes, pulling away to seal the victory. This effort was a full-team contribution, with guards, forwards, and centers all working together to clean the glass and limit second-chance opportunities for the Eagles.

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