The Virginia Tech Hokies Women’s Basketball team has steadily established itself as a powerhouse in NCAA Division I basketball. As one of the top programs in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), the Hokies have consistently ranked among the best, thanks in part to a talented and dedicated roster that combines experience, skill, and potential. With the 2024 season underway, fans are eager to see how this new crop of athletes will perform, following a string of successful seasons that included a strong showing in the NCAA Tournament and an ever-growing reputation as one of the premier women’s basketball programs in the country.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the Virginia Tech women’s basketball roster for the 2024 season, highlighting key players, newcomers, and the team’s overall strength as they prepare for another competitive year in the ACC.
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Overview of Virginia Tech Women’s Basketball
Virginia Tech Women’s Basketball has a rich history, with a legacy of success that has included multiple NCAA tournament appearances and an increase in national recognition in recent years. Under the leadership of head coach Kenny Brooks, the Hokies have experienced a resurgence, becoming a staple in the Top 25 rankings and often vying for a top seed in the NCAA tournament.
The Hokies’ rise to prominence is attributed to the development of both skilled athletes and a strong team-oriented culture. Coach Brooks, who took over in 2016, has built a program that excels in both offense and defense, combining disciplined play with fast-paced, dynamic basketball.
Key Players on the 2024 Virginia Tech Women’s Basketball Roster
The 2024 Hokies women’s basketball team is filled with talent, from experienced upperclassmen to fresh new faces. Here are some of the standout players to keep an eye on this season:
1. Georgia Amoore (Guard)
One of the most important returners for the Hokies, Georgia Amoore has been an integral part of the team’s success over the past few seasons. A senior guard from Australia, Amoore is known for her scoring ability, leadership on the floor, and exceptional basketball IQ. She brings versatility to the team with her ability to play both as a facilitator and as a scoring threat. Amoore’s deep shooting range and quickness make her a major asset in both half-court sets and transition play.
2. Elizabeth Kitley (Center)
Arguably the most well-known player on the roster, Elizabeth Kitley is one of the premier centers in the nation. Kitley, a two-time ACC Player of the Year, has been a dominant force in the paint for the Hokies. Her impressive size, skill, and work ethic have made her a key figure for the Hokies both offensively and defensively. Kitley’s ability to score inside, pull down rebounds, and alter shots has made her an invaluable asset to the team. Her leadership will be crucial as Virginia Tech looks to make a deep run in the NCAA tournament.
3. Kayana Traylor (Guard)
Kayana Traylor, a transfer from Purdue, has quickly become a key player for Virginia Tech. A senior guard with extensive experience at the collegiate level, Traylor adds depth and versatility to the Hokies’ backcourt. Known for her ball-handling and ability to score from all areas of the floor, Traylor’s presence allows the Hokies to play with greater flexibility, whether they’re running set plays or pushing the tempo in transition.
4. D’Asia Gregg (Forward)
Another important player to watch this season is D’Asia Gregg, a forward who has steadily improved over the past few years. Known for her toughness, rebounding, and ability to guard multiple positions, Gregg provides the Hokies with a strong presence in the paint. Her ability to stretch the floor and contribute offensively will be crucial for Virginia Tech’s success in the ACC this season.
5. Megan Walker (Guard/Forward)
A highly touted incoming freshman, Megan Walker is one of the top recruits for the Hokies in the 2024 class. Walker’s combination of size, skill, and athleticism makes her a standout player on both ends of the court. She is a strong defender and a capable scorer, able to drive to the basket or knock down mid-range shots. As a freshman, Walker has the potential to make an immediate impact for the Hokies, providing depth to the team’s backcourt and forward positions.
6. Sierra Kersey (Forward)
A rising sophomore, Sierra Kersey is another key player who’s expected to contribute significantly in the 2024 season. Kersey’s energy and work ethic make her a valuable asset off the bench, and her ability to score inside and contribute defensively has made her a player to watch. As she continues to develop, Kersey could emerge as a key player for the Hokies in both conference play and the NCAA tournament.
7. Taja Cole (Guard)
Taja Cole is another veteran guard on the Hokies roster. Having previously played for the University of Louisville, Cole brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the team. She is known for her excellent court vision and ability to facilitate the offense. As a senior, Cole’s leadership and veteran presence will be key in helping the younger players acclimate to the high level of competition in the ACC.
2024 Virginia Tech Women’s Basketball Schedule
Virginia Tech’s 2024 women’s basketball schedule promises to be an exciting and challenging one. As always, the Hokies will face some of the top teams in the ACC, including rival Syracuse, Louisville, and North Carolina. In addition to conference play, Virginia Tech will also face a number of non-conference opponents that will test their ability to compete on the national stage.
Key Games to Watch:
- Virginia Tech vs. Louisville: The Hokies’ matchup against Louisville, one of the top teams in the ACC, is always a must-watch. With both teams contending for the top spots in the conference, this game could have major implications for the ACC tournament standings.
- Virginia Tech vs. Syracuse: This rivalry matchup features two teams that play an uptempo, high-scoring style of basketball. It’s always a thrilling contest when the Hokies face the Syracuse Orange.
- Virginia Tech vs. North Carolina: Another ACC showdown that will feature some of the top talent in the conference. Expect a physical and competitive game that could play a role in the seeding for the NCAA tournament.
Virginia Tech Women’s Basketball: Coaching and Culture
Coach Kenny Brooks has done an exceptional job building a program that emphasizes both individual talent and team cohesion. Under his leadership, the Hokies have consistently ranked among the top teams in the ACC and have made a series of NCAA tournament appearances, establishing the team as a perennial contender.
Coach Brooks has fostered a culture of hard work, accountability, and family within the program. His coaching staff, which includes experienced assistant coaches and trainers, works tirelessly to develop both the athletic and personal growth of each player. This commitment to excellence has helped the Hokies continue to be a top-tier team in women’s basketball.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who are the top players to watch on the Virginia Tech women’s basketball team in 2024?
The standout players to watch include Elizabeth Kitley (center), Georgia Amoore (guard), and Kayana Traylor (guard). These players are expected to lead the team and make significant contributions in both conference and NCAA tournament play.
2. How has Virginia Tech Women’s Basketball performed in recent years?
Virginia Tech has experienced a resurgence under head coach Kenny Brooks, consistently finishing in the top tier of the ACC and making regular NCAA tournament appearances. The team has been a contender for both ACC titles and deep NCAA tournament runs.
3. What is the Hokies’ playing style under Coach Brooks?
Coach Kenny Brooks has developed a style of play that emphasizes fast-paced offense, strong defense, and specialized special teams. The team is known for its ability to score in transition while also being disciplined in half-court offense.
4. Where do the Hokies play their home games?
The Virginia Tech Hokies women’s basketball team plays their home games at Cassell Coliseum, located on the Virginia Tech campus in Blacksburg, Virginia. The arena is known for its electric atmosphere and passionate fans.
5. What are the goals for the Virginia Tech women’s basketball team in 2024?
The primary goals for the Virginia Tech Hokies in 2024 are to compete for an ACC championship, secure a high seed in the NCAA tournament, and make a deep run to the Final Four. With a talented roster and strong leadership, the Hokies are poised to be one of the top teams in women’s basketball this season.
Conclusion
The Virginia Tech women’s basketball roster for 2024 is filled with talent, experience, and potential. With key returners like Elizabeth Kitley, Georgia Amoore, and Kayana Traylor, along with promising newcomers, the Hokies are poised to continue their ascent in the world of women’s college basketball. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the program, it’s clear that Virginia Tech women’s basketball is a force to be reckoned with, and the 202