Neoklis Avdalas' eye-opening performance leads Virginia Tech past Providence in overtime

After opening the 2025-26 season with a 31-point win over Charleston Southern, the Virginia Tech men's basketball team stepped into tougher competition with a game against Providence in Uncasville, Connecticut, as part of the Hall of Fame Tip-Off.

Trailing 46-40 against the Friars at halftime, the two teams went back-and-forth in the second half, and after Providence missed a 3-pointer at the buzzer by Stefan Vaaks that went halfway down and came out, the two teams went to overtime tied at 86-86. In the extra session, Virginia Tech took advantage.

Virginia Tech put up 21 points in overtime and made some clutch shots and decisions behind freshman Neoklis Avdalas to improve to 2-0 on the season. The Hokies took control of the overtime with an 8-2 run that began off the tip and a Jailen Bedford layup.

The story of the game, however, was Avdalas. He played years beyond his age with his 33 points, and he made some clutch shots when needed. Amani Hansberry tied the game late in regulation for the Hokies on a put-back.

Throughout the regulation, Virginia Tech struggled to get stops on the defensive end and allowed Providence some easy baskets. However, when push came to shove in overtime, they picked up enough stops, including a late block that led to a transition basket.

Bedford finished second behind Avdalas in points with 18, including three 3-pointers. Amani Hansberry had 17 points, including a huge 3-pointer in overtime, and he had 11 rebounds. Tyler Johnson had 12 points, and Jaden Schutt had 10 points off the bench. Tobi Lawal only had seven points, but he hauled down a team-high 13 rebounds.

The story again was Avdalas, who took over the game as a freshman in the second half and overtime. He bet his defender off the dribble multiple times for baskets, and his jump shot looks really smooth. Virginia Tech returns to Cassell Coliseum on Wednesday night for a non-conference matchup with Saint Joseph.