Busting Brackets
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ACC Basketball: Chris Mack, Tony Bennett top 2019 COY Award candidates

By Jerran Anderson

TALLAHASSEE, FL - JANUARY 12: Head coach Leonard Hamilton of the Florida State Seminoles looks on against the Duke Blue Devils during the first half at Donald L. Tucker Center on January 12, 2019 in Tallahassee, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
TALLAHASSEE, FL - JANUARY 12: Head coach Leonard Hamilton of the Florida State Seminoles looks on against the Duke Blue Devils during the first half at Donald L. Tucker Center on January 12, 2019 in Tallahassee, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /
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Photo by Ryan M. Kelly/Getty Images
Photo by Ryan M. Kelly/Getty Images /

5. Buzz Williams, Virginia Tech Hokies

The Virginia Tech Hokies have done the unthinkable in their last nine games, winning five with senior guard and leader Justin Robinson. It’s an ode to head coach Buzz Williams and his ability to win with whatever he’s been given this season.

The Hokies are currently 11-6 in the conference this season, despite missing senior forward Chris Clarke, who was suspended indefinitely before their first regular season game. Although things haven’t gone their way from a roster point-of-view, Williams has managed to make the most of it.

He’s currently got Kerry Blackshear Jr. playing at a high level in Robinson’s absence. Blackshear put up  23 points and 10 rebounds in the Hokies upset victory of Duke on Feb. 26 in Blacksburg. He’s put up at least 20 points and three double-doubles in their last four of their last five contests, taking over the offensive load with a smooth transition in Robinson’s absence.

11 wins in conference play and counting, Williams in on his way to his highest win-total in ACC play since taking over as head coach before the 2014-15 season.