Pitt was strong from start to finish in defeating Georgetown at the Pete on Saturday 72-60. The Panthers raced out 31-14 lead in the first half and while the Hoyas trimmed that lead several times, could never come fully back.
Typically for Pitt, it would have been just another day at the office as Pitt remained unbeaten in the history of the Pete against top ten ranked teams. But with the Panthers struggling so much this season, it’s safe to say the win was at least a bit unexpected.
Also unexpected was the source of offensive production for Pitt. Nasir Robinson and Lamar Patterson led the way with 41 points on an astounding 15-17 shooting from the field. Robinson was 9-9, only two shy of the school’s all-time record without a miss held by Brian Shorter who once went 11-11. Conversely, Ashton Gibbs and Tray Woodall had a somewhat quiet night, totaling 17.
While Woodall didn’t have a great night running the point (four points on 1-7 shooting and four turnovers), he did manage ten assists. There’s no question that even though his offense wasn’t there that Pitt plays significantly better with him in the lineup.
Pitt’s reserves didn’t do much, contributing only six points and seven rebounds. However, Georgetown’s bench kept them in the game throughout, led by Otto Porter. Porter’s 14 not only led the bench, but the entire Hoyas’ squad.
Despite the win, Pitt’s season is still a big question mark at this point. Beating a top ten team will significantly help their resume, but at 13-9 with several bad losses, the Panthers still have a lot of work to do if they even want to even sniff an NCAA berth.
For more on the game and Pitt basketball, check out SB Nation’s Pitt blog, Cardiac Hill.