When the Virginia Tech men's basketball team takes the court on Saturday afternoon in Charlottesville against No. 13 Virginia, the Hokies NCAA Tournament chances are hinging on the outcome of the game. Squarely on the bubble, Virginia Tech needs a win in the worst way.
Sitting at 19-11 overall and 8-9 in the ACC, things have not gone as planned for Virginia Tech this season after a major roster overhaul following a disappointing 2024-25 season that saw them finish 13-19. Even with a win over the Cavaliers on Saturday, the Hokies are likely headed for a game on the first day of the ACC Tournament next Tuesday.
After that, it's either to the NCAA Tournament after picking up some huge wins over the next week, or a trip to the NIT, something that would be hard to see the Hokies turn down, knowing the competitiveness of Young. Then all eyes will be on 2026-27, and according to Jeff Goodman of The Field of 68, all signs point to Young leading that charge for at least another season.
Virginia Tech men's basketball coach Mike Young reportedly returning for the 2026-27 season
Yes, it's been a frustrating season in Blacksburg, and it has led to the fanbase calling for change after the season. It appears that it won't be happening after Jeff Goodman of The Field of 68 reported that all indications are that Young is returning for next season.
All indications are Virginia Tech coach Mike Young will return next season whether the Hokies make the tourney or not, source told @TheFieldOf68.
— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanHoops) March 6, 2026
Virginia Tech is 19-11 overall and 8-9 in ACC play.
Likely need a win at Virginia tomorrow and/or a run at ACC tourney to go…
Mark Berman of The Roanoke Times also reported on Friday morning that AD Whit Babcock said the veteran coach will be back on the sideline next season. If we're being honest, it is not surprising that Young is returning. This may not be a popular opinion with some fans, but it is news that isn't surprising.
Now the question is, what does next season's roster look like? Tobi Lawal is a senior, and what happens with star freshman Neoklis Avdalas? Once seen as a first-round draft pick, his stock has tumbled since conference play began. It's going to be an interesting spring in terms of roster construction for next season, and which players leave via the Transfer Portal and which stay.