NCAA Basketball: Ranking the 2023 inaugural ACC/SEC Challenge matchups

6. Virginia Tech Hokies at Auburn Tigers

It’s always fun to have a battle between a quality offense and a quality defense on the court and if the past few years of both programs are an indication, that should be the same next season. Auburn’s defense should remain intact, thanks to the return of star big man and elite shot-blocker, Johni Broome.

The backcourt for the Tigers will look a little different but has a high ceiling. Joining returning guard K.D. Johnson is five-star point guard Aden Holloway and Denver Jones, a 20 ppg scoring transfer from Florida International. D-II transfer Chaney Johnson and JUCO wing Chad Baker-Mazara also have the chance to secure key roles in the rotation that should be one of the most athletic in the SEC.

Virginia Tech’s roster situation is the opposite, with the same backcourt and new frontcourt. Sharpshooting guards Sean Pedulla and Hunter Cattoor are both back, while Northwestern transfer Robbie Beran and former UNC wing Tyler Nickel hope to replace the massive lost production of Grant Basile and Justyn Mutts. They’re a team that could score a ton but defense will be the question.

This is the kind of early-season matchup that’ll be good for both sides. Because the Hokies need to deal with these kinds of athletes and Auburn’s offense may not be able to keep up against this ACC opponent. This one could go either way, making it one to watch in November.