Virginia Tech basketball fans are scratching their heads over this year’s men’s basketball season.
While the team did win 19 games, it lost its share of ones in the last minute of several games.
Thus, fans want to know what’s happening in Blacksburg—a question that can’t be summed up in one answer. Injuries, missed free throws and a lack of killer instinct seemed to haunt them over and over.
Then after bowing out early in the ACC tournament, the team made the decision not to play in the National Invitational Tournament, despite the fact they had not received an official invite.
So, Coach Mike Young and fans will have to wait to next year for any more boxes of popcorn.
Do remember, this is the same NIT tournament the Hokie program had claimed in 1973 pushing it into the national spotlight.
The program issued the following statement late last week:
“Given the current health status of members of our roster and the need for students athletes to focus on recovery and prepare for professional careers, we believe it is in the best interest of our players and long term direction of this program to conclude our season at this time.”
“While we respect the tradition and competitiveness of the NIT, the standard for our program remains clear. Our expectations are to compete in the NCAA Tournament.”
Again, they won 19 games and the NIT is something that might have helped the team and individual players build their resume for next season.
Several Hokies are eyeing a professional basketball career, but this year’s collegiate one was not anything they can hang their hats on. The performance of this team could’ve been a lot better for sure.
At times, Head Coach Mike Young even questioned what was happening with this team.
In most cases, Virginia Tech might have hosted one or two games in the NIT, meaning more gate and a chance to add to the highlights.
I just think Virginia Tech missed the boat in saying no to the NIT. Any future invites might be few and far between, and Hokie Nation needed something more to cheer for.
The exposure to the program and school would help with the future.
Yes, making it the NCAA big show and Final 64 should be the objective. But they have to get better at everything.
I will miss the popcorn!
