30 Facts About Virginia Tech Basketball

Virginia Tech Basketball: A Storied Program

Virginia Tech Basketball has a rich history filled with memorable moments, legendary players, and significant achievements. Here are some fascinating facts about this storied program.

1. Virginia Tech's basketball program began in 1906. The team has been competing for over a century, showcasing its long-standing tradition in college basketball.

2. The Hokies' team nickname comes from a spirit yell. The term "Hokie" originated from an old cheer, "Hokie, Hokie, Hokie, Hi," created in 1896.

3. Cassell Coliseum is the home court. Opened in 1962, this arena has a seating capacity of over 9,000 and is known for its energetic atmosphere.

4. Virginia Tech joined the ACC in 2004. Moving to the Atlantic Coast Conference marked a significant step for the program, increasing its competitiveness.

5. Dell Curry is one of the most famous alumni. Curry, who played from 1982 to 1986, went on to have a successful NBA career and is the father of NBA stars Stephen and Seth Curry.

6. The Hokies have made multiple NCAA Tournament appearances. Their first appearance was in 1967, and they have participated several times since.

Memorable Moments and Milestones

Virginia Tech Basketball has had its share of unforgettable moments and significant milestones. Here are some highlights that stand out.

7. The 1967 NCAA Tournament run. The Hokies reached the Sweet 16, marking their first deep run in the tournament.

8. Winning the 1973 NIT Championship. This victory remains one of the program's most significant achievements.

9. The 1995-96 season was historic. The Hokies finished with a 23-6 record and made it to the second round of the NCAA Tournament.

10. First ACC Tournament win in 2011. Virginia Tech defeated Georgia Tech, securing their first victory in the ACC Tournament.

11. Buzz Williams era brought success. Under Coach Williams, the Hokies made three consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances from 2017 to 2019.

12. Mike Young's impact. Hired in 2019, Coach Young has revitalized the program, leading the team to an NCAA Tournament appearance in 2021.

Legendary Players and Coaches

Virginia Tech has been home to several legendary players and coaches who have left a lasting impact on the program.

13. Bimbo Coles is the all-time leading scorer. Coles scored 2,484 points during his career from 1986 to 1990.

14. Ace Custis was a fan favorite. Playing from 1993 to 1997, Custis was known for his rebounding and defensive prowess.

15. Allan Bristow had a notable career. Bristow played from 1970 to 1973 and later had a successful NBA career.

16. Charlie Moir is the winningest coach. Moir coached from 1976 to 1987, amassing 213 wins.

17. Seth Greenberg's tenure. Greenberg coached from 2003 to 2012, leading the Hokies to multiple postseason appearances.

18. Dell Curry's jersey is retired. His number 30 jersey hangs in Cassell Coliseum, honoring his contributions to the program.

Rivalries and Traditions

Rivalries and traditions are integral parts of Virginia Tech Basketball, adding excitement and passion to the games.

19. The rivalry with Virginia is intense. Known as the Commonwealth Clash, games against the University of Virginia are highly anticipated.

20. Enter Sandman entrance. The team enters the court to Metallica's "Enter Sandman," energizing the crowd and players.

21. The Cassell Guard. This student section is known for its loud and enthusiastic support during home games.

22. The Hokie Bird mascot. The beloved mascot adds to the festive atmosphere at games.

23. Maroon and orange are the team colors. These distinctive colors are proudly worn by fans and players alike.

Recent Success and Future Prospects

Virginia Tech Basketball continues to build on its legacy with recent successes and promising future prospects.

24. 2021 ACC Tournament Championship. The Hokies won their first ACC Tournament Championship in 2021, a milestone achievement.

25. Keve Aluma's standout performances. Aluma has been a key player, earning All-ACC honors.

26. Recruiting success under Mike Young. Coach Young has brought in talented recruits, setting the stage for future success.

27. Strong fan support. The Hokies have a passionate fan base that supports the team through thick and thin.

28. State-of-the-art facilities. Recent upgrades to practice facilities and locker rooms provide the team with top-notch resources.

29. Community involvement. The team actively participates in community service, strengthening its bond with fans.

30. Bright future ahead. With a solid foundation and strong leadership, Virginia Tech Basketball looks poised for continued success.

Virginia Tech Basketball: A Legacy of Excellence

Virginia Tech Basketball has a rich history filled with memorable moments and remarkable achievements. From legendary players to historic wins, the Hokies have consistently demonstrated skill and determination on the court. Their dedicated fan base and strong community support have played a crucial role in their success. Whether it's the thrilling games or the inspiring stories of perseverance, Virginia Tech Basketball continues to captivate and inspire. As the team looks to the future, fans can expect more exciting seasons and unforgettable highlights. The legacy of Virginia Tech Basketball is not just about the past; it's about the ongoing journey and the promise of what's yet to come. Keep cheering for the Hokies and stay tuned for more basketball magic from this incredible team.