Hokie ClubBLACKSBURG – Mike Young’s squad is off to a strong start, concluding the non-conference portion of the season at 11-2, their best start to a season since 2022-23 and are poised to jump into ACC play, which begins in earnest with a clash against rival Virginia on Wednesday, December 31 at 2 p.m. at Cassell Coliseum. Coverage will be provided by ACC Network.
Tech’s non-conference slate has featured some unforgettable moments, like Neoklis Avdalas’ 33-point heroics to lift the team to an overtime victory over Providence in the Basketball Hall of Fame Tip Off. He became the first Hokie to record a game of 30 points, five rebounds and five assists since 2021 (Keve Aluma). He also tallied 30 points in a home win over Maryland Eastern Shore, making him one of two ACC athletes to own two such performances this season. Earlier this month, he appeared on ESPN’s draft board at number 23. The Greek national has been honored as the ACC’s Rookie of the Week twice, just the second Hokie to earn the distinction twice.
Newcomer Amani Hansberry who Young has described as “The best connector” he has ever coached, has been a steady contributor. A post player, Hansberry can also step out to shoot and is a great passer, tallying three or more assists in 10 games. The junior forward is averaging 16.3 points and 8.4 rebounds and has recorded a team-best five double-doubles.
Jaden Schutt and Ben Hammond, Young’s “sixth and seventh starters” have made massive contributions to the squad. Schutt, one of the conference’s best 3-point threats, has filled it up from outside, including making a career-high six triples vs. George Mason. Hammond has scored in double figures seven times and owns a 2.33 assist to turnover ratio.
The rest of the roster has certainly played their part including Jailen Bedford, who in addition to being a great on-ball defender has seen the ball go in the basket a fair amount as well. He’s one of four Tech players to record a 20-point game this season.
Freshman Christian Gurdak has provided a lift in the post, grabbing key rebounds and converting his field goal attempts at a high rate. Izaiah Pasha put in his best performance against UMES, playing for 27 minutes and recording seven points and six assists while not committing a single turnover.
Tech’s other athletes; Tyler Johnson, Antonio Dorn, and Sin’Cere Jones have all put in solid performances as well. Johnson, who has started each contest scored a career-high 16 points vs. VCU in The Bahamas and is one of four athletes to average 30 minutes per game for Young’s team.
Tech sits at 63 in the NET with several opportunities to earn résumé building wins ahead.
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