Virginia Tech Basketball: 2021-22 season preview and outlook for Hokies

Key reserves

Guard – Hunter Catoor, Junior

Hunter Cattoor returns in the Virginia Tech basketball lineup with the potential to earn ACC basketball’s Sixth Man of the Year award in 2021-22.

Cattoor made 22 appearances (2 starts) in 2020-21, while pouring in 9.2 ppg and 1.1 rpg off the bench as a reserve. He also knocked down 43.3 percent of his shots from behind the arc. With more minutes on the horizon, he’ll look to do more damage as a two-way threat.

Guard – Sean Pedulla, Frosh.

Sean Pedulla is a new face in the Hokies rotation that should make quite the impression with his ability to play either guard spot. He’s a 6-foot-1 guard with quite the confidence off the bounce with a knack for getting to the paint and finishing in traffic and knocking down shots with range. He’ll be an intriguing addition to the backcourt off the bench.

Center – Lynn Kidd, Soph.

Lynn Kidd is set to play quite the role in the Virginia Tech basketball frontcourt given his size and athleticism at 6-foot-10. He’ll look to make a splash in the paint after appearing in just 33 total minutes in the Clemson rotation this past year. If he can prove he rebound the ball and protect the rim, he should find a role for himself on the team.

Wing/Forward – Darius Maddox, Soph.

Darius Maddox returns after making 11 appearances in the rotation in 2020-21 in his college debut. He’ll be looked upon to play a solid backup role to Justyn Mutts after appearing in just 3.2 minutes per contest this past season.

Forward – Jalen Haynes, Frosh.

The biggest “under-the-radar” prospect in the group is Jaylen Haynes. Haynes spent a postgraduate season at Montverde Academy after graduating from Dillard High in Fort Lauderdale, FL. He averaged 20.2 points and 10.6 rebounds per contest in the Montverde ranks while improving his skill set as an all-around forward at 6-foot-8 and 215 pounds.

Given his size and frame, his presence could certainly be felt if things go in a positive direction under Mike Young’s direction. He chose the Hokies over Boston College, Central Florida, Mississippi State, and East Tennessee State.