Virginia Tech Basketball: 2018-19 season preview for the Hokies

Virginia Tech Basketball have appeared in back-to-back NCAA Tournaments the past two seasons but things could be difficult without a key piece in 2018-19.

With the college basketball season right around the corner, the Virginia Tech Hokies got some not so good news with the indefinite suspension of forward Chris Clarke. For what it’s worth, Clarke’s name has been removed from the Virginia Tech website, so take from that what you will. It could rock their No. 15 AP preseason poll ranking, but maybe not too much considering their pedestrian non-conference schedule.

The Hokies still return a deep group from last year’s tournament team but without Clarke, they will miss one of their most versatile players on both ends of the floor. Guards Justin Robinson and Nickeil Alexander-Walker will have their hands full as will big man Kerry Blackshear Jr. but with some new depth in the backcourt and the return of Ty Outlaw, things could work out for them.

Head coach Buzz Williams and crew went 21-12 in 2017-18, going 10-8 in ACC play with wins over the Virginia Cavaliers, Duke Blue Devils and Clemson Tigers. All three teams will be equally good and then some this upcoming season, but the Hokies also have some players on their roster with opportunities before them to step up. It will be a season of adjustments for Virginia Tech this year, that’s for sure. Here’s a look at the season preview for the Hokies in 2018-19.