Hokie ClubBLACKSBURG - Virginia Tech men’s basketball fell to 12-4 (1-2 ACC), losing its first game in Cassell this season after Stanford’s late-game surge to win 69-68.
Cardinal standout freshman Ebuka Okorie closed a 13-point Hokie lead in the second half with a huge scoring burst, ending with 31 points and hitting the game-winning three.
Neoklis Avdalas took control of the game offensively for Tech from the opening tip. He scored from all three levels, totalling 23 for the night.
Boards were a huge factor early, with both frontcourts battling and hustling for loose balls. Amani Hansberry grabbed 11 missed shots and scored 11 points, which is good for his eighth double-double on the season.
Despite Tech’s double-digit lead, the Cardinal always seemed to have an answer and grab momentum back. During the last four minutes, Stanford went on an 11-0 run, setting up Okorie’s three-pointer after a missed Hokie free throw.
GAME NOTES
• The starters for Virginia Tech were Neoklis Avdalas, Jailen Bedford, Jaden Schutt, Amani Hansberry, and Christian Gurdak for the third consecutive game.
• Tobi Lawal re-entered the lineup for the first time since his injury and made his presence felt on defense with two blocked shots.
• Ben Hammond continued to impress in late-game situations, with his 14 points all coming in the second half.
UP NEXT
Tech will be back at Cassell Coliseum on Saturday, Jan. 10 to take on Cal. Tipoff is set for 4 p.m. on ACCN.