Get ready for a thrilling basketball season, because the Hokies are on fire! With an impressive 11-2 record, Mike Young’s team has wrapped up their non-conference games in style, setting the stage for an electrifying ACC showdown. But here’s where it gets even more exciting: their journey kicks off with a highly anticipated clash against rival Virginia on December 31 at 2 p.m. in Cassell Coliseum, broadcast live on ACC Network. This isn’t just any game—it’s the start of something big.
The non-conference slate has been nothing short of spectacular, filled with moments that’ll be talked about for years. Take Neoklis Avdalas, for instance. His 33-point masterpiece in an overtime win against Providence at the Basketball Hall of Fame Tip Off wasn’t just a personal triumph—it was history in the making. He became the first Hokie since 2021 (shoutout to Keve Aluma!) to rack up 30 points, five rebounds, and five assists in a single game. And he didn’t stop there—Avdalas dropped another 30 points in a home victory over Maryland Eastern Shore, cementing his status as one of just two ACC players with two 30-point games this season. Oh, and did we mention he’s ranked 23rd on ESPN’s 2026 NBA Draft board? The Greek phenom has also snagged ACC Rookie of the Week honors twice, a feat only one other Hokie has achieved.
But Avdalas isn’t the only standout. Newcomer Amani Hansberry, dubbed by Coach Young as “the best connector” he’s ever coached, has been a rock-solid contributor. This post player isn’t just about scoring—he’s a versatile threat who can shoot from outside and dish out assists, logging three or more in 10 games. Hansberry’s averaging 16.3 points and 8.4 rebounds, with a team-leading five double-doubles. Then there’s Jaden Schutt and Ben Hammond, Young’s dynamic duo off the bench. Schutt’s sharpshooting from beyond the arc, including a career-high six three-pointers against George Mason, has been a game-changer. Hammond, meanwhile, has hit double figures in scoring seven times and boasts a stellar 2.33 assist-to-turnover ratio.
And let’s not forget the rest of the squad, who’ve all stepped up in big ways. Jailen Bedford, a defensive stalwart, has also shown he can light up the scoreboard, joining three other Hokies with a 20-point game this season. Freshman Christian Gurdak has been a force in the post, grabbing crucial rebounds and converting field goals at a high clip. Izaiah Pasha had his breakout moment against UMES, playing 27 turnover-free minutes with seven points and six assists. Tyler Johnson, Antonio Dorn, and Sin’Cere Jones have all delivered solid performances, with Johnson scoring a career-high 16 points against VCU in The Bahamas and averaging 30 minutes per game.
But here’s where it gets controversial: With the Hokies sitting at 63 in the NET rankings, are they being underrated by the broader college basketball community? They’ve got plenty of opportunities ahead to prove their mettle and build a résumé that demands respect. And this is the part most people miss—this team isn’t just about individual talent; it’s about chemistry, grit, and a collective hunger to win.
So, what do you think? Are the Hokies poised for a deep ACC run, or is there still work to be done? Let us know in the comments! In the meantime, don’t miss your chance to be part of the action. Join the Hokies in guarding Cassell Coliseum by grabbing your single-game tickets today. Let’s pack the house and make this season unforgettable!
