We are just two weeks away from the 2025-26 college basketball season beginning. This year, there is a lot of excitement around the Virginia Tech program for a number of reasons. One of them is the retention Mike Young got from some players and the additions made in the offseason.
One of those additions was freshman Neoklis Avdalas, who committed to the Hokies before going through the NBA Draft process, only to withdraw and sign with Virginia Tech. Jon Rothstein spoke highly of him earlier this month and compared him to a first-round draft pick last year from BYU.
ESPN ranked the Top 50 transfers and newcomers for the upcoming season, and two new Hokies made the list, according to Jeff Borzello.
ESPN ranks Top 50 transfers and newcomers for the upcoming season
Borzello ranked Avdalas the 32nd top newcomer for this season.
"Avdalas withdrew from the NBA draft last spring but could be one-and-done with the Hokies. The 6-foot-8 versatile perimeter player impressed at May's NBA draft combine, showing impressive shooting ability as he grew more comfortable throughout the week. He will have the ball in his hands plenty in Blacksburg."
As for sleeper newcomers, West Virginia Amani Hansberry was one of the top 16, and Borzello wrote should excite Hokies fans.
"Coach Mike Young has been effusive in his praise of Hansberry, who played at Illinois and West Virginia the past two seasons. Hansberry has caused matchup issues up front dating back to high school, given his vision, passing ability, and face-up touch. He could be an ideal fit for Young's offense."
Young added more players through the Transfer Portal who are going to step in and make a difference. This year feels different and is a big one for Young in terms of having enough talent to get into the NCAA Tournament. Whether or not that happens, it remains to be seen, but on paper, they have a chance.