The respect and recognition for Virginia Tech’s historic Final Four has been well received, along with a No. 8 preseason ranking. But the Hokies are ready to move forward and build on what’s become a solid, firm foundation.
“Sometimes if you rest on your laurels, you might fall asleep and somebody is going to catch up to you so we really turned the page,” said Virginia Tech head coach Kenny Brooks.
Recommended Videos
Returning to the court, the Hokies lose nearly an average of 30 points per game with Kayana Traylor, Taylor Soule, and D’Asia Gregg having exhausted all remaining eligibility. But Tech does have the depth to go with the two-time ACC Player of the Year Elizabeth Kitley and sharpshooters Cayla King and Georgia Amoore.
“I think after last season, I gained a bit more confidence,” Kitley said. “Obviously, I’ve gained awards in the ACC but to be recognized nationally is pretty cool.
“When you play for each other it can get you far,” said King. Not listening to the outsider--you use outside people as motivation but when you are playing for the girl next to you and that’s what you’re worried about that’s what takes you as far as we got.”
It’s renewed energy in Charlottesville where the Cavaliers went 15-15 in year one under Coach Mox—starting the season 12-0. UVa went unbeaten in non-conference play for just the 3rd time in program history.
“I think we did exceed expectations but as a competitor and coach, I feel like we can always do better,” said Virginia head coach Amaka Agugua-Hamilton. “I love the way we started, we hit some adversity. I was proud that we kept fighting.”
“We’re really buying in and defending the culture we had last year that Coach Mox and her staff have bought,” said Cavaliers forward Camryn Taylor.
Virginia also touts one of the top recruiting classes in recent history which is expected to help bolster its 8 returners to the floor. The Cavaliers will open with Maryland Eastern Shore on November 8. Virginia Tech will open play against High Point on November 6.