Virginia Tech men’s basketball coach Mike Young has seen just about it all during his time on the sidelines. Whether it was at Wofford or in Blacksburg, the veteran coach who eclipsed the 400-win plateau this season, he is still surprised sometimes.
Tuesday night, the Hokies dropped a 91-59 decision at home to North Carolina in a game that saw the Tar Heels take command late in the first half with a 25-6 run. During that run, Virginia Tech turned the ball over, which made it easier for UNC to get out and get some easy points in transition.
“I thought they were unforced,” Young said. “I didn’t think North Carolina bothered us; I didn’t think North Carolina created those turnovers. They were in good spots and they had pressure on us, but my God, it’s just really bothersome. Really, really bothersome and I haven’t been able to correct it and that is very frustrating for me.
“I don’t know that I’ve ever had this in my 23 years and that keeps me up at night.”
Believe it or not, Virginia Tech finished the game with only 12 turnovers. Now, I say “only 12” because there have been multiple nights where they finish with over 20 turnovers in close games that end up costing them. A lot of them are unforced, which makes it even more frustrating.
If we’re being honest, Young has exceeded expectations with his team this year. Between graduation last year and the transfer portal, they have a whole new roster for the most part, and mistakes like that are going to happen with a roster learning to play together. However, we are in March and they should still not be happening.
It’s not surprising that something like that is keeping Young awake at night. The fact that they have won 13 games and eight in the ACC is a major feat within itself. They have one more regular season game at Clemson on Saturday night before the ACC Tournament next week. You can bet a sticking point over the next couple of days will be taking care of the ball. Easier said than done.