Virginia Tech Beats Alabama A&M 65-55

The Hokies put an unusual lineup on the floor to start the game and got good production out of it in a 65-55 win Sunday in Cassell Coliseum.

Rarely used walk-ons Christian Beyer and Will Johnston both got the start for Tech in place of Shane Henry and Devin Wilson.

Beyer lead the Hokies (5-4, 0-0) with 13 points and nine rebounds in addition to his high energy in the start. Freshman Justin Bibbs also scored in double-figures with 11 points and four assists. Johnston chipped in 8 points and two rebounds while Shane Henry scored six and pulled down six boards.

"I thought we did a good job. We've got to figure out what works," head coach Buzz Williams said post-game.

"This is our ninth game and we've got to continue to try to change things until we can find a group that's doing what we want them to do...some of it's trial and error to be honest with you."

The Bulldogs (1-6, 0-0) got down early but rallied behind an impressive performance by forward Ladarius Tabb who finished with 20 points and a game-high 16 rebounds. Nicholas West added 17 points and 11 rebounds leading to a 42-28 rebounding advantage for Alabama A&M.

The Hokies turned the ball over just eight times compared to 18 for the Bulldogs. Tech once again struggled at the free throw line making just 10-of-20 shots there despite shooting an impressive 48.1% from the field.

Tech now has six days off before another home game December 20 against Citadel at 1 p.m.