7. Buzz Williams, Virginia Tech
4Buzz Williams led the Virginia Tech Hokies to back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances for the first time since 1984-86. He’s done his best to change the culture in Blacksburg, but there’s still more work to do.
The Hokies will return one of their most experienced rotations under Williams this upcoming season led by senior guard Justin Robinson. Robinson emerged as a second-team All-ACC selection after averaging 14.0 points, 5.6 assists 2.8 rebounds and 1.2 steals per contest last season. He leads a rotation that returns four of its five starters from 2017-18.
The Hokies will be thin in the frontcourt without center Khadim Sy, but Williams managed to make it through last season with Kerry Blackshear Jr. manning the paint. Blackshear led Virginia Tech in 2017-18 with 5.9 per contest despite averaging 3.1 fouls per game.
This upcoming season should be a turning point for the Hokies as they look to make it three NCAA Tournament appearances in a row. With Nickeil Alexander-Walker back for another season and sharpshooter Landers Nolley in the fold, Virginia Tech will be loaded under Buzz Williams for 2018-19.