The Clemson women’s basketball team suffered a heartbreaking 71-68 loss to Virginia Tech on Thursday night at Cassell Coliseum, letting a strong performance slip away after a late-game surge by the Hokies.

The Tigers, 13-7, 4-4 ACC, at the time, held a strong front through the first two quarters with Taylor Johnson-Matthews sparking the offense. Johnson-Matthews finished the night with 20 points.

The Hokies, then 15-5, 5-3 ACC, relied on Carleigh Wenzel’s shot-making and Carys Baker’s hustle plays to stay within reach, but Clemson closed the half on a strong run to take the lead 39-33 into the break.

Clemson carried momentum over into the third quarter, stretching its lead with scoring from Raven Thompson and production from Johnson-Matthews. The Hokies struggled offensively, leading to turnovers and fouls that limited their scoring.

Virginia Tech retaliated in the fourth quarter, ramping up defensive pressure and forcing Clemson into turnovers. Baker, a 24-point contributor on the night for the Hokies, capitalized on second-chance scoring and hit a crucial three late in the game. Samyha Suffren added a big basket to keep the Hokies within striking distance.

VT took the lead in the final seconds on a putback layup, and Wenzel sealed the win at the free-throw line after a late, sloppy Clemson turnover.