Virginia Tech’s McMillan Hits Historic 30th Home Run in ACC Semifinals

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – In a thrilling ACC Semifinals showdown, third-seeded Virginia Tech fell to second-seeded Clemson, 10-9, on Friday afternoon at the Harrington Athletics Village. Virginia Tech star, McMillan, made history during the game by hitting her 30th home run of the season, becoming the first player in ACC history to achieve this feat in a single season.

The game began with Virginia Tech capitalizing on three early errors from Clemson, taking a 3-1 lead. McMillan’s significant moment came with a runner on second base, when she sent a blast over the fence, extending Tech’s lead to 5-1. This notable achievement also places her among just 17 players in NCAA Division I history to reach the 30 home run milestone in a season.

As the game progressed, Virginia Tech added to their lead with a three-RBI double from Aldridge in the sixth inning, bringing the score to 8-2. However, Clemson was not done yet. The Tigers capitalized on five walks from the Hokies, scoring eight runs in a stunning rally during the bottom of the sixth inning, shifting the momentum in their favor and ultimately leading to the win.

Virginia Tech pitcher recorded a season-high seven strikeouts, but the pitching staff struggled with command, also allowing a season-high 13 walks throughout the game. Despite outhitting Clemson 11-7, Virginia Tech could not overcome Clemson’s explosive final inning.

McMillan led the Hokies with three RBIs, while Aldridge and Zoe Yaeger also contributed significantly with a combined total of four hits. With the loss, Virginia Tech has now fallen in the ACC Semifinals for the fourth time in the past five years. McMillan’s historic home run highlights her exceptional performance, as she currently leads the nation with 30 home runs.

Looking ahead, the No. 13/14 Virginia Tech Hokies (41-11, 18-6 ACC) await their placement in the NCAA Division I Softball Championship, with the selection show scheduled for Sunday, May 11, at 7 p.m. on ESPN2.