Hokie ClubBLACKSBURG - Virginia Tech women's basketball legend Elizabeth Kitley's jersey is set to be retired on Sunday Jan. 19 at the Hokies’ game against Louisville. Kitley, the program's most decorated player, leaves a lasting legacy that includes three ACC Player of the Year crowns, numerous program records and many memorable moments in maroon and orange.
A formal unveiling of her retired number 33 jersey will take place at Carilion Clinic Court at Cassell Coliseum during halftime of Sunday’s contest which has been dubbed ‘Liz Kitley Night’.
"Elizabeth's impact on Virginia Tech and women's basketball transcends statistics," Director of Athletics Whit Babcock said. "Her passion, work ethic and character have left an enduring legacy that is inspiring the next generation. Retiring her jersey is a symbolic gesture of gratitude for the mark she has left on our women's basketball program and the hearts of Hokie Nation."
Kitley, who played for five seasons, is the program's all-time leader in games started, minutes played, points scored and scoring average. She posted the most double figure scoring games in program history as well as field goals made, FG percentage, 30-point games and blocks. She holds the ACC record for rebounds (1,506) and double-doubles (76).
In 2023-24, she led the Hokies to their first ACC regular-season title in program history, leading the league in scoring and rebounding en route to collecting her third consecutive ACC Player of the Year trophy. In addition, she earned first team All-ACC honors for the fourth time, All-Defensive Team accolades for the third time and was the Kay Yow Scholar Athlete of the Year for a third time.
The 6-foot-6 center assisted in ushering in a new era of women's basketball in Blacksburg, elevating the Hokies from a challenger program to a championship program. She helped the Hokies win 115 games and she went 66-11 (.857) at home in Cassell Coliseum, suffering just two losses in her last two seasons.
In each of the past three seasons, she has garnered AP All-America attention, culminating with her second team selection in 2024, the first time that a Hokie has earned that distinction twice. She was also a finalist for the Lisa Leslie Award, Wade Trophy and was a Wooden Award All-American.
Off the court, she will be remembered for upholding the values of Virginia Tech and the spirit of Ut Prosim.
"Congratulations to Elizabeth on the well-deserved honor of her jersey retirement. Watching her blossom from a young girl with a dream, into one of the best to ever wear a Hokie uniform was one of the greatest joys of my career,” Kenny Brooks former Hokies head coach said. “Her passion, determination and unwavering commitment not only shaped Virginia Tech women’s basketball but it also galvanized a fan base and a community. Retiring her jersey isn't just about her accomplishments, but about celebrating the heart, grit and spirit, of what it means to be a Hokie.”
Below are procedures for fans to collect their Liz Kitley bobbleheads.
Liz Kitley bobbleheads will be distributed postgame in the concourse of Cassell Coliseum to minimize congestion and ensure everyone can enjoy the game stress-free. Here's how to pick up your bobblehead:
Double-Double Deal Purchasers: Visit the Promotions Booth behind section 101 and provide the purchaser's name. As a reminder, you will be able to claim 1 bobblehead for every 2 tickets ordered.
Season Ticket Holders: Head to the table behind sections 111-113 and provide the account holder's name for pick-up. As a reminder, you will be able to claim 1 bobblehead for per season ticket account.
Students: To be able to receive your bobblehead postgame, you must pick up a voucher, distributed by Cassell Guard, from the east entrance upon entering Cassell. After the game, take your voucher to the East Concourse, which is outside the Student Gate, to collect your Liz Kitley Bobblehead.
Please note, postgame pick-up is the ONLY way you can receive your bobblehead.