Virginia Tech basketball: Could Tyrece Radford return soon?

When Virginia Tech sophomore guard Tyrece Radford was arrested back on Jan. 24 and charged with one count of driving while intoxicated and one count of carrying a concealed weapon — both misdemeanors — panic set in around the basketball program.

Why can’t the Hokies have nice things? Most assumed Radford would be out for the remainder of the season and perhaps longer when he was suspended indefinitely from the basketball team.

However, shortly after his arrest, Virginia Tech head coach Mike Young offered Radford a strong endorsement. He spoke of his character and work ethic, not what he meant to the basketball team.

That’s why everyone loves Young — oh, and he’s a great coach.

Young's endorsement led many to believe this could be resolved sooner rather than later, but did not offer a timeline for his return to the team.

Things changed this week when Radford showed up at the Montgomery County General District Court and was found guilty of first-offense driving under the influence, per Mark Berman of The Roanoke Times.

Radford and his attorney, Jimmy Turk, reached a plea agreement on the DUI charge and the sophomore guard pleaded no contest to the gun charge.

Judge Randal Duncan took the case under advisement for a year and would likely dismiss the charge if Radford has no more issues.

“You have too much going for you,” Duncan told Radford. “Do better.”

Shortly thereafter, talks about Radford’s return to the team heated up. And he could be back within the next 7-10 days. The Hokies are in Miami to play the Hurricanes on Saturday but don't play again until next Saturday when they host Louisville.

Tech’s game against Florida State next week was postponed due to COVID-19.

Radford’s return would be huge for the Hokies, who have gone 2-1 during his absence. Junior forward Keve Aluma has been dominant but Tech has gotten little offense from its perimeter players with the exception of Hunter Cattoor.

Young said earlier in the week “there was a path” in Radford’s return to the team and that was before the court date.

Radford is averaging 11.1 points per game and 6.3 rebounds per game and is also one of the top defenders in the ACC.