Virginia Tech downs Longwood 84-58 to move to 7-1

The Virginia Tech Hokies wrapped up the nonconference portion of their schedule on Monday evening with an 84-58 win over Longwood in Blacksburg.

The Hokies move to 7-1 on the season, including a 6-1 mark in nonconference play.

The game was close at halftime, as Tech led 34-30 before the Hokies came out red-hot in the second half to blow the game open.

While the Hokies weren’t quite as hot from the field on Monday as they were in Saturday’s win over Coppin State, they did shoot a blistering 59 percent in the second half after a cold start.

In addition to its hot shooting, Tech’s defense tightened up in the final 20 minutes, too, allowing just 28 points.

Sophomore guard Jalen Cone came off the bench to lead the Hokies with 18 points, shooting six of 15 from the field — all were three-point attempts.

Forward Keve Aluma continues to provide a strong low-post presence for Virginia Tech, scoring 12 points. Tyrece Radford led the team with eight rebounds, while also scoring nine points.

Once again, the Hokies received good minutes from freshman forward David N’Guessan. N’Guessan played 17 minutes, scoring five points and pulling down seven rebounds.

Tech’s top freshman, Joe Bamisile, continues to get more comfortable at the collegiate level. In Monday’s win, Bamisile scored 11 points in just five minutes of action.

The No. 24 Hokies return to action next Tuesday when they host Miami at 6:00 p.m. in Blacksburg.