Elina Aarnisalo added 13 points and five assists for the Tar Heels (22-6, 12-4 Atlantic Coast Conference), who combined for all nine overtime points in the win. Lanie Grant sealed the game with two clutch free throws with 25 seconds left.
Virginia Tech (20-8, 10-6) was led by Carys Baker and Samyha Suffren with 15 points each. The Hokies shot 34% from the floor, while North Carolina managed 37%. Both teams resume play on Sunday.