Valdes scores winning free throw as Georgia Tech survives UNC Asheville 75-74

Tylis Jordan contributed 17 points as Georgia Tech edged UNC Asheville 75-74 in a pivotal NCAA tournament game on Saturday. With just one second on the clock, Victor Valdes sealed the victory by successfully converting a free throw. The Yellow Jackets (4-0) had struggled initially, trailing by as much as 11 points at halftime, but rebounded impressively.

Courtland Muldrew's three-pointer gave Georgia Tech a 65-63 lead with 3:14 left, but Khayri Dunn capitalized on a deep shot to reclaim the lead. Jordan tied the game with a free throw, and Georgia Tech ultimately took a 74-71 lead in the waning moments. Connor Dubsky's 3-pointer with 3 seconds remaining tied the contest once more.

Valdes, who had fouled in the closing seconds, made the decisive free throw to secure the win. Jordan added seven rebounds, while Jackson Fields finished with 14 points and 14 rebounds. Kam Craft led UNC Asheville with 13 points and four 3-pointers, and Kaiden Bailey contributed 11 points off the bench. Myles Mayfield was the top scorer for UNC Asheville with 21 points on 9-of-11 shooting, while Khayri Dunn and Connor Dubsky each netted 11 points.

Georgia Tech will face Norfolk State on Tuesday, while UNC Asheville hosts Tennessee Tech on Wednesday.