Virginia Tech
2017-18 record: 21-12, 10-8 in the ACC
Head coach: Buzz Williams
Tenure at Virginia Tech: 5th season
Career coaching record: 227-146
Home court: Cassell Coliseum
Starters: G Justin Robinson, G Ahmed Hill, G Nickeil Alexander-Walker, G/F Chris Clarke, F Kerry Blackshear Jr.
Bench: G/F Ty Outlaw, G/F Landers Nolley II, F P.J. Horne
Overview: Buzz Williams has transformed a program that, prior to his arrival, had not reached the NCAA tournament since 2007. Now it is time to see if he can take his core—which has led the Hokies to two straight NCAA tournament appearances for the first time since 1986—to the next level. With six of its top seven scorers and all but one member of its starting lineup a year ago back in the fold, Virginia Tech has a legitimate shot at being a conference contender.
The Hokies should have no trouble scoring the ball, with star senior point guard Justin Robinson and redshirt junior Kerry Blackshear Jr. forming a potent inside-out combination that is bolstered by a trio of talented scorers to fill out their starting lineup. But senior Chris Clarke was suspended indefinitely with less than a week before opening night, leaving a hole in their starting five.
Although projected post player Khadim Sy opted to transfer from Virginia Tech in the offseason, it will have depth at all spots, outside of Blackshear in the post. Expect Williams to rely on Blackshear down low as the Hokies’ only player taller than 6-foot-7.
One thing that needs to go right: Blackshear stays healthy and dominates down low, as Virginia Tech makes a sustained run in the NCAA tournament.
One thing that could go wrong: Larger teams expose the Hokies in the paint, as they struggle to rebound and defend.
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