Virginia Tech Basketball Secures 10th Win Despite Key Player Injuries

Virginia Tech men’s basketball earned its tenth victory of the season on Sunday. The Hokies defeated their opponent 82-53 at home in Blacksburg. The win came despite missing several important players due to health issues.

Virginia’s Camryn Taylor (20) celebrates after scoring during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against Virginia Tech, Sunday, March. 3, 2024, in Charlottesville, Va. (AP Photo/Mike Kropf)

Head coach Mike Young saw his team’s depth tested. Multiple contributors were sidelined, but others stepped up impressively. This demonstrated the squad’s resilience early in the season.

Balanced Scoring and Unselfish Play Lead the Way

Five Hokies scored in double figures in the win. Neoklis Avdalas led with 15 points. Christian Gurdak, Tyler Johnson, Amani Hansberry, and Ben Hammond also reached at least 10 points.

This marks the fifth game this season with five or more double-digit scorers. The unselfish offense was a key point for Coach Young after the game. He praised the team’s ball movement and decision-making.

The assist numbers told the story. The team recorded 24 assists on 31 made baskets. Avdalas dished out seven assists, while Izaiah Pasha added six more off the bench.

Overcoming Adversity with Next Man Up Mentality

The team played without forwards Tobi Lawal and Jailen Bedford. Lawal remains out with an ankle injury. Bedford missed the game with an upper respiratory illness.

Center Antonio Dorn also left the game early with a back issue. His status is being monitored daily. This forced others into larger roles, which they embraced fully.

Sophomore transfer Izaiah Pasha played a season-high 27 minutes. He contributed seven points and six assists with zero turnovers. Christian Gurdak filled in for Dorn, posting 13 points and eight rebounds.

Coach Young highlighted the team’s “next man up” approach. He expressed pleasure with how reserves performed when called upon. This depth will be crucial as Atlantic Coast Conference play approaches next month.

The Virginia Tech basketball team showed its mettle and depth with a commanding victory. Overcoming multiple absences, the Hokies displayed the balanced, unselfish style that defines successful teams. This win builds momentum as the squad prepares for its final non-conference tests.

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Who were the key players missing for Virginia Tech?

Forward Tobi Lawal missed his sixth straight game with an ankle injury. Jailen Bedford was out with an illness, and center Antonio Dorn exited early with a back issue.

How did the Hokies’ offense perform so well?

The offense was highly efficient and shared the ball. Five players scored in double figures, and the team assisted on 24 of its 31 made field goals.

Which reserve player made a significant impact?

Transfer Izaiah Pasha played a key role, logging 27 minutes off the bench. He provided seven points and six assists without a turnover in his extended opportunity.

What did Coach Mike Young emphasize after the game?

Young praised the team’s unselfish play and ball movement. He was particularly encouraged by the high assist total and the balanced scoring from multiple contributors.

When is Virginia Tech’s next game?

The Hokies host Elon this Saturday, December 20th. The game tips off at 2 p.m. ET and will be available for viewing on ACC Network Extra.

What is the biggest concern moving forward?

Rebounding remains a focal point for improvement. Coach Young noted the guards need to help more on the defensive glass as tougher ACC competition looms.