Hokie ClubOn Friday night, Virginia Tech will welcome back to campus a large group of former men’s basketball players for Alumni Weekend. This group represents a rich tradition of Virginia Tech basketball, both on the court and in their communities.
A wide spectrum of graduating classes are represented with this collection of players, some dating back to the pre-Cassell Coliseum era. Players and managers, some who went on to play professionally and many others who entered the workforce, have achieved in many different arenas.
"It's exciting to be able to come back to participate in not only supporting the team, but the college and university as well, Ted Daniels ‘63. “I'm proud of Virginia Tech and the athletic department for doing everything they can to bring Virginia Tech basketball to the same level of recognition as Virginia Tech football. Bringing the alumni back to support the players and coaches will help create the foundation to have the same recognition nationally that Virginia Tech football does."
Among those who will be present Friday is Wayne Robinson. A standout on the court during his undergraduate days, Robinson was a key member of the Hokies’ 1980 Metro Conference Tournament championship team. However, today, Wayne, a member of the Virginia Tech Sports Hall of Fame, has taken his leadership skills to the University’s Board of Visitors.
“This reunion marks a tremendous step towards enhancing the legacy of Virginia Tech basketball,” Robinson said. “Our former players are enthusiastic about where the program is going and we expect to see a tremendous surge of investment and support to the university as whole.”
Also expected for the reunion is Bimbo Coles, the Hokies’ all-time leader in scoring and assists. Prior to his senior season at Tech, Coles was a member of the U.S. Olympic basketball team, making him the first Olympian in school history. After his days in Blacksburg, Coles enjoyed a long and successful career in the NBA.
Another one of the school’s all-time statistical leaders is expected this weekend. Chris Smith, a charter member of the Virginia Tech Sports Hall of Fame, is the all-time leader in rebounds at Tech, with 1,508 boards - a mark that likely will never be bested. Although he was Tech’s first-ever NBA draftee, Smith used his Virginia Tech degree and has had a successful career in the private sector.
Other Hall of Famers expected for the weekend include Loyd King, former ABA standout Glen Combs, and former NBA player and coach John Wetzel. Also here this weekend will be Ted Ware and Stan Kerrick, both named Academic All-Americans during their undergraduate days.
Another familiar face attending will be Ace Custis. A Hall of Famer and one of four Hokies with a retired number, Custis won’t be cheering for his alma mater during the game, however. He is an assistant coach with Friday’s opponent, Maryland-Eastern Shore.
Along with the alumni in attendance, several former players send their regards, but were unable to attend. One of Tech’s all time greats, Dell Curry, was unavailable this weekend due to prior commitments, but hopes to return to a game in the near future that fits within his duties with the Charlotte Hornets.
Many other popular and accomplished Hokies will be here this weekend, supporting and cheering on the school and the team that they love. From the 1950s all the way to the present, Virginia Tech men’s basketball is well represented.
“Virginia Tech basketball holds a special place in my heart ever since I played in ’72-’76,” David Sensibaugh ’76 added. “Anytime we can come back together to share stories and meet the new team it is always a rewarding experience. To have a reunion at this time on Coach Williams’ first game with a new era beginning is going to make the visit even more memorable.”
The weekend will begin on Friday morning with a tour of campus. In the afternoon, the alumni will attend the team’s shootaround in Cassell Coliseum and later have a pre-game meal in the Bowman Room. Tip-off is at 7 p.m. and the alumni will be recognized during halftime. The night concludes with a reception at the host hotel, the Courtyard Marriott in Blacksburg.
More activities are waiting on Saturday, as after practice, there will be a former player meeting and a viewing of the Virginia Tech – Duke football game, all at the hotel. At the viewing party, players, coaches and staff will join the alumni to tailgate for the game. Sunday morning will feature a breakfast and a non-denominational church service at the hotel.
For more information on this year’s activities or next year’s reunion, please visit:
https://secure.hosting.vt.edu/alumni.vt.edu/event_management/registration_forms/mbball_reunion.php
or