Pittsburgh Basketball: 3 keys to ACC opening matchup at Virginia Tech Hokies

Pittsburgh had a rough letdown performance, falling by 33 points on the road at Mississippi State in the SEC/ACC Challenge. It was the Panthers' worst game of the 2024-25 season, but they have to turn the page quickly to the start of ACC play. Their first opponent is Virginia Tech, which lost five straight games and could be at the bottom of the conference standings in March.

But that makes this a tricky game for the Panthers, who are playing their fifth straight game away from home. And while Pittsburgh will be the favorite, true road games in league play can be the equalizer. Here’s a look at the keys for Pitt to avoid the upset.

1. Get Cam Corhen back on track

The transfer from Florida State had a strong start to the season, scoring in double figures in the first seven games. But the last two games were non-factor performances, scoring six combined points against Ohio State and Miss State and making two baskets total. Corhen isn’t going to overwhelm opposing frontcourts, but VT will be a good test if high-majors will be too much, going up against the 260-pound center, Mylyjael Poteat.

2. More of an impact from Papa Kante and Amsal Delalic

In Damian Dunn's absence, Pitt has tried to boost the overall depth. It’s had mixed results, with Papa Kante now getting minutes behind Corhen at center, while Delalic has scored just six total points in two games (60 minutes combined) as the starter at the three-spot. The Panthers will need more on both ends against better teams until they’re at full strength again.

3. Limit Jaden Schutt’s impact from deep

Virginia Tech doesn’t have anyone averaging over 11.5 ppg on the season, so there isn’t a clear-cut guy they have to stop. But the one guy who could go off is Schutt, a transfer from Duke. The 6’5 guard is averaging 9.4 ppg, shooting a team-best 38% from three-point range. 

Schutt is coming off a 15-point game against Vandy, making 5/11 from three-point range. He also made five 3-pointers against Winthrop and can go off against Pittsburgh. If they shut him down and take the three away, the Hokies’ odds of winning will shrink.