The Coppin State Eagles soar into Blacksburg to clash with the Virginia Tech Hokies in a season tip-off that promises fireworks. The Eagles, after a challenging 9-23 run last season, are hungry to flip the script. Meanwhile, the Hokies aim to capitalize on their 19-15 record, sharpening their talons for another ACC conquest. It’s a fresh slate, high hopes, and the hardwood awaits at Cassell Coliseum.

Eagles Set to Defy the Odds with Fresh Talent

Elevating from a 9-23 season, the Coppin State Eagles, under the fresh playbook of Head Coach Larry Stewart, are poised for an ascent. Last year’s 4-10 conference record is now history as they rebuild from the ground up—without returning starters, the Eagles are looking to turn heads and outperform expectations.

The backcourt duo of senior guard Malik Battle and junior Greg Spurlock will have to play at an MVP level, stepping up their game significantly. The Eagles’ scoring might took a hit with the departure of last season’s leader, Sam Sessoms, who averaged a stellar 20.5 points per game. His contribution, along with Nendah Tarke’s rebounding prowess (5.9 RPG), and the playmaking skills he showcased (5.0 APG), leave big shoes to fill. 

Their stat sheet reflects an uphill battle. The team averaged 72 points per game last season. They shot a field goal percentage of 43.5%, a respectable figure that they’ll need to maintain. Defensively, they let through a field goal percentage of 43.8%—tightening up here will be crucial for success. On the defensive end, the Eagles’ wingspan needs to translate into more steals and blocks, aiming to eclipse last season’s averages and disrupt their opponents’ rhythm. Their free throw and three-point percentages, standing at 71.9% and 33.8% respectively are foundations to build upon.

Virginia Tech Gears Up for a Season of Surprises

The Virginia Tech Hokies men’s basketball team is primed for an intriguing 2023-2024 season. Fresh off a 19-15 record last year, the Hokies enter this campaign with an overall rank of #55 and a conference rank of #7 in the ACC. While the loss of key players like Grant Basile, Justyn Mutts, and Darius Maddox leaves a significant void, it also paves the way for new and returning talents to step up.

Last season’s exit to the NIT didn’t meet the high standards set by Coach Mike Young, but the Hokies are now armed with a roster that can’t be overlooked. Sean Pedulla, the junior guard who netted 15.0 points per game, along with 3.6 rebounds and 3.8 assists, is back. Joining him in the backcourt is Hunter Cattoor, the senior guard who contributed 10.8 points and 3.7 rebounds last year. Both are expected to run the floor and light up the scoreboard. The sophomore guard Rodney Rice and other role players like Lynn Kidd and MJ Collins add depth and agility to the roster.

Making the Hokies even more compelling are the new faces—Robbie Beran, a senior forward transferring from Northwestern, and Mekhi Long, another senior forward coming in from Old Dominion. Then there are the young guns: Tyler Nickel, Brandon Rechsteiner, Conner Venable, Patrick Wessler, and Jaydon Young, who are expected to bring that youthful energy to the hardwood. Statistically speaking, Virginia Tech’s offensive and defensive numbers from last year offer a mixed bag. The team averaged 74.1 points per game but allowed 70.1, placing them 115th and 173rd in the nation, respectively. Field goal percentages were a bright spot—46.9% for the Hokies and 44.6% for their opponents. This shows that while the offense can shoot, the defense needs to clamp down harder to be truly competitive.

David´s Pick – Virginia Tech Hokies (-25.5)

The Virginia Tech Hokies, with a robust 19-15 record and a hardened backcourt, are poised to trump the Coppin State Eagles. Despite the departure of Basile, Mutts, and Maddox, the Hokies’ arsenal is far from depleted. Junior sharpshooter Sean Pedulla, alongside senior guard Hunter Cattoor, promise a relentless assault on the scoreboard. The Eagles, rebuilding without Sessoms and Tarke, face a steeper climb. Virginia Tech, averaging a sturdy 74.1 PPG against the Eagles’ 72, and boasting a field goal percentage of 46.9% to Coppin State’s 43.5%, have the statistical edge. Factor in the Hokies’ superior depth and its easy to see that smart money is with VT.