2/22/2003
The Hoyas won on the road on 2/22/03, defeating Miami in their new convocation center by a score of 74-72. Mike Sweetney led all scorers and all rebounders on his way to his 33rd double-double, scoring 24 points and pulling down 10 boards. Mike also had 3 blocks, 2 assists and 2 steals. Gerald Riley contributed 19 tallies (his 17th game in double figures this season and the 7th time he has scored 19 or more.) Tony Bethel added 12 points and led the team in steals with 5. He also made a steal in the final 00:07 which added to the margin of victory. Victor Samnick rounded out the quartet in double figures, contributing 10 points.
In the first frame the Hoyas opened up an early lead of as many as 7, only to see the Hurricanes storm back and establish a 7 point lead of their own. The margin at intermission favored the home squad by 4, 27-31. The Hoyas hit only 32% from the field while Miami made 42.9% of their attempts.
In the second half, the Hoyas found their shooting touch, hitting 57.1% of their attempts. Unfortunately, the Hurricanes also improved their shooting percentage, hitting 50% from the floor. The Hoyas trailed through much of the first 12 minutes, after which a see-saw battle raged. Over the next 7 minutes there were 3 ties and 4 lead changes. With 3:55 remaining, however, Georgetown established a lead it would not relinquish. Although a pair of turnovers under pressure in the final 27 seconds had Hoya fans nervous, a Bethel steal and outlet pass to Bowman led to a free throw in the final 5 seconds which sealed the win.
