Virginia Tech Basketball Escapes Elon With Gritty Overtime Victory

The Virginia Tech Hokies men’s basketball team secured a narrow 82-81 overtime win against Elon on Saturday. The game took place at Cassell Coliseum in Blacksburg. This Virginia Tech basketball victory came despite the team being severely shorthanded.Head coach Mike Young’s squad was missing multiple key players. They also faced a large second-half deficit before mounting a comeback.

Overcoming Adversity and a 19-Point Deficit

The Hokies were without three usual starters. Tobi Lawal and Antonio Dorn were out injured. Star guard Neoklis Avdalas was sidelined by illness.Elon capitalized on Tech’s absences early. The Phoenix built a commanding 19-point lead late in the first half. Virginia Tech struggled to find rhythm on both ends of the court.The Hokies chipped away at the lead after halftime. They finally tied the game on an Amani Hansberry floater with 28 seconds left. This forced overtime after a crucial defensive stop.

Gurdak’s Game-Winner Seals Chaotic Finish

The overtime period was a back-and-forth affair. Neither team led by more than two points. Ben Hammond hit clutch free throws to give Tech a one-point lead.Elon answered with a layup to go back ahead with 25 seconds remaining. On the final possession, Hammond found center Christian Gurdak under the basket. Gurdak scored the game-winning layup with just seconds left.Elon’s last-second shot missed. According to the team’s official social media, the Hokies celebrated a hard-fought home victory. Gurdak finished with 17 points and six rebounds in 28 minutes.

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The shorthanded Hokies showed tremendous resilience to steal this win. This Virginia Tech basketball performance highlighted their depth and fighting spirit ahead of ACC play.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Who were the Hokies missing against Elon?

Virginia Tech played without starters Tobi Lawal and Antonio Dorn due to injury. Guard Neoklis Avdalas also missed the game because of illness.

How big was the deficit Virginia Tech overcame?

The Elon Phoenix led by 19 points with just over three minutes left in the first half. The Hokies slowly worked their way back into the game throughout the second half.

Who scored the winning basket for Virginia Tech?

Center Christian Gurdak scored the game-winning layup on an assist from Ben Hammond. The play came with roughly 10 seconds left in the overtime period.

What were Amani Hansberry’s stats?

Forward Amani Hansberry recorded a double-double with 20 points and 14 rebounds. He fouled out after playing 33 minutes in the contest.

What is next for the Hokies?

Virginia Tech has a nine-day break before opening ACC play. They will face the University of Virginia Cavaliers on New Year’s Eve in Charlottesville.