Virginia Tech Basketball Gears Up for a Return to March Madness

Charlotte, NC — The energy at ACC Media Day was unmistakable as Virginia Tech’s men’s basketball team arrived in Charlotte, brimming with confidence and anticipation ahead of the 2025–2026 season. Surrounded by the buzz of reporters and cameras, head coach Mike Young and several key players reflected on their preparation, philosophy, and aspirations for the months ahead.

Entering his seventh season at the helm in Blacksburg and boasting over 400 career victories, Young expressed both confidence and gratitude for the group he’s leading this year. “We’ve been doing this for a long time,” Young said, smiling as he reminisced about past successes. “I’m thrilled with this roster and really excited about the opportunity to coach this team.”

Building a Culture of Accountability and Grit

Coach Young continues to emphasize a clear identity built on six core pillars: smart, tough, obsessive, no excuses, every day, and skill. These principles, he says, are not just guidelines but the foundation of the Hokies’ culture—one that demands accountability from coaches and players alike.

“No excuse is probably trying to hold myself accountable as well as my teammates,” Young noted, reinforcing that the culture begins with him and extends to every player in the locker room.

Leadership development remains a key aspect of Young’s program. He pointed to returning players such as Amani Hansberry and Tobi Lawal as examples of young men stepping into larger leadership roles this season. Hansberry praised his coach’s approach, saying, “Coach Young puts everyone in winning positions while emphasizing accountability. He knows how to push us to be our best.”

Lawal, known for his energy and defensive presence, echoed that sentiment. “I feel like I can play multiple positions and help facilitate,” he said. “We have so many guys who can step up in different ways, and that versatility makes us really dangerous.”

Reflections on Past Success and Team Development

During the media session, Young looked back on some defining moments from his tenure, including an emotional win over Virginia, which still brings a smile to his face. “That was a special one,” he admitted, recalling the team’s resilience and togetherness in that game. Those moments, he said, remind him of the steady progress Virginia Tech basketball has made under his leadership.

The Hokies’ continued success, he emphasized, is fueled by consistent player development and smart recruiting. A key addition this year is Neoklis Avdalas, a gifted international recruit who has quickly impressed the coaching staff. “He is an unbelievable passer—more of a point guard than anything,” Young said. “He’s adapting to the system really well and adds a new dimension to how we can play.”

Young also spotlighted returning veterans like Ben Hammond and Tyler Johnson, praising their steady improvement and growing importance to the team’s overall chemistry. Meanwhile, Lawal’s return provides stability and leadership in the frontcourt, where he’s expected to anchor both offense and defense. “Tobi’s a talented worker,” Young said. “He’s committed to becoming an even better player this year.”

Adapting to Change in College Basketball

In discussing the evolving landscape of college basketball, Young acknowledged the challenges—and opportunities—brought by the transfer portal, NIL, and international recruiting. “You better evolve with everything going on,” he said. “We’re focused on our location and resources, but we’re also excited about the international talent we’ve brought in. It adds something new to our program.”

That adaptability, Young believes, is a key to long-term success. “College basketball looks a lot different than it did a few years ago,” he continued. “But our goal stays the same: to bring in players who fit our culture and make this program stronger.”

Team Unity and Chemistry

The Hokies’ players repeatedly emphasized one theme—brotherhood. The camaraderie built during offseason workouts and preseason training has fostered a close-knit group determined to play for each other.

Forward Jailen Bedford spoke passionately about the team’s bond. “We’re a blessed group,” he said. “We’ve spent a lot of time together, and that connection off the court makes a huge difference in how we play on it.”

Hansberry agreed, adding, “There’s nothing that you can’t do when everyone trusts each other. We all know our roles, and we’re all willing to do whatever it takes to win.”

Newcomer Isaiah Pasha, last year’s Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) Rookie of the Year, said he’s eager to contribute to that culture. “I want to bring energy on both sides of the ball,” he said. “This team plays fast, moves the ball well, and communicates—it’s been an easy fit for me.”

Depth, Versatility, and High Expectations

When discussing his potential lineups, Coach Young hinted at several intriguing combinations. “If I started today, we’d start Amani and Tobi together,” he said, underscoring the frontcourt flexibility that allows the Hokies to adapt to different opponents. He also mentioned the possibility of rotating as many as nine or ten players, giving the team the depth needed for a long ACC campaign.

Individually, players have set ambitious goals. Hansberry aims to be named ACC Newcomer of the Year and to shoot 40% from three-point range. Lawal hopes to lead the team in defensive metrics and help Virginia Tech become one of the top rebounding units in the conference. Collectively, the group has its sights set on winning the ACC title and returning to the NCAA Tournament.

Young, however, keeps the focus on daily improvement. “It’s all about stacking good days,” he said. “We talk about being consistent every single day—practices, workouts, film sessions. That’s where championships are built.”

Eyes on the Season Ahead

The upcoming schedule includes several challenging non-conference matchups that will test the Hokies early. Young sees these games as vital preparation for ACC play. “Those early games set the tone,” he explained. “They tell you who you are and what you need to fix before conference play begins.”

Despite the challenges ahead, optimism radiates from the program. The combination of experienced returners, promising newcomers, and a clear team identity gives Virginia Tech a strong foundation to compete at the highest level.

“The time to shine is close,” Young said with confidence. “This team has the talent, the chemistry, and the drive to do something special.”

As fans in Blacksburg prepare to pack Cassell Coliseum, anticipation for the 2025–2026 season continues to build. With Mike Young’s steady leadership and a roster fueled by accountability, unity, and versatility, Virginia Tech basketball looks ready to deliver an exciting and memorable campaign.