Bracketology 2021: Gonzaga, Virginia Tech among week’s biggest winners

Virginia Tech Hokies

While much of the ACC appeared to be among the biggest losers of week 1, Virginia Tech shocked quite a lot of people by picking up a thrilling overtime victory over #3 Villanova on Saturday night. For that, Virginia Tech is probably the biggest Bracketology winner of week one.

It was only one signature win, but if it is to provide a glimpse at what is to come for Virginia Tech basketball, then Mike Young’s squad will be sure to exceed the expectations of many around the NCAA Basketball world. Only time will tell, but that victory gives Hokies fans a lot to look up to.

One thing that caught my eye last night was the ability of Va Tech to not be overwhelmed when behind. They spent much of the second half down and rather than letting it have a negative impact on their game, they just kept battling back. That is definitely something that we did not see much of last year from this team.

Another thing that really stood out in their victory over Villanova was their ball movement. This year’s Hokies team looks to be a lot better at spreading the floor, and their ability to work the ball inside led to easy points by Junior forward Keve Aluma. Aluma, the Wofford transfer, who is already accustomed to playing in a Mike Young led offense, had a career night.

In addition to Aluma, the ability to spread the floor with quick passes resulted in key three-pointers that allowed Virginia Tech to pull off the upset. If they can keep up this style of play, they will give some of the top ACC teams plenty of issues.

This great victory by the Hokies and the disappointing performances of other ACC teams allow them to be trending upward in terms of bracketology after week one.