What's Happening?
Virginia Tech's men's basketball team secured a significant victory over Virginia in a thrilling triple-overtime game, winning 95-85. This marks the Hokies' fourth overtime win of the 2025-26 season and
their first victory over a ranked opponent since January 2024. Sophomore guard Ben Hammond was instrumental in the win, scoring 30 points and contributing five rebounds and five assists. The game was marked by intense competition, with both teams struggling with shooting in the first half but improving in the second. Virginia Tech's resilience was evident as they overcame a late-game deficit to force multiple overtimes, ultimately outlasting Virginia in the third extra period.
Why It's Important?
This victory is crucial for Virginia Tech as it boosts their confidence and strengthens their resume for potential postseason play. Beating a ranked team as an unranked squad highlights their capability to compete at a high level, which could influence their standing in future rankings and tournament selections. The performance of players like Ben Hammond and Christian Gurdak, who stepped up in the absence of key teammates, demonstrates the team's depth and potential. This win also enhances the team's morale and sets a positive tone as they enter a challenging stretch of games against other competitive teams.
What's Next?
Virginia Tech will face Wake Forest on January 3, 2026, in their next game. This matchup is part of a series of games against strong opponents, including Wake Forest and SMU, both considered Quad 1 teams. The outcome of these games will be critical in determining Virginia Tech's position in the ACC standings and their potential for postseason play. The team will aim to maintain their momentum and continue their winning streak, which currently stands at six games.
