Hokies Ranked in both Basketball Polls

The men’s basketball AP Poll was released on Thursday, and the Hokies are
ranked #21 in the country. Tech is also #23 in the Coaches’ Poll.

The Hokies are one of three ACC basketball teams ranked in the preseason Top
25, joining defending National Champion Duke, as well as the North Carolina Tar
Heels.

Virginia Tech will be missing r-sophomore forward Allan Chaney (viral
inflammation of the heart) and senior forward J.T. Thompson (torn ACL). Both
players are out for the season. Sophomore forward Cadarian Raines is recovering
from two foot surgeries in the past year. He’s out of his walking boot, but he
hasn’t resumed full-speed practice as of yet.

Despite those losses, Virginia Tech returns all five starters and is expected
to make the NCAA Tournament this season.

The Hokies will need as many players as possible this year, because they have
ramped up their non-conference schedule. On November 16 they play at #3 Kansas
State. They also host #8 Purdue, play against a tough field in the 76 Classic in
Anaheim, and take on a good Mississippi State team in the Bahamas.

Tech will tip-off the season on November 12 when they host Campbell at
7:30pm.