Syracuse Revives ACC Hopes Against Virginia Tech Saturday

Syracuse, N.Y. — The Syracuse Orange will face the Virginia Tech Hokies on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Cassell Coliseum in Blacksburg, Virginia, aiming to secure crucial wins as they strive for a spot in the ACC Tournament. The game is scheduled to start at noon ET and will air on The CW.

After ending a three-game losing streak with a 74-60 victory over NC State on Wednesday, the Orange (12-16, 6-11 ACC) are looking to build momentum against the Hokies (12-16, 7-10 ACC). J.J. Starling led Syracuse in their last outing with 17 points, while Eddie Lampkin Jr. recorded his 12th double-double of the season, contributing 14 points and 15 rebounds.

Syracuse head coach Adrian Autry stressed the importance of consistency in their play, especially after watching their lead diminish during the last match. ‘We can’t afford to let our efforts slip,’ Autry said. ‘Every possession counts, especially with the tournament on the line.’

Virginia Tech, meanwhile, is coming off a narrow 71-66 defeat to No. 19 Louisville. The Hokies were led by Brandon Rechsteiner, who scored 18 points off the bench. That loss extended Virginia Tech’s frustrations, marking five consecutive home defeats.

The Orange hold a historical advantage over the Hokies, leading the all-time series 13-7, with their last victory against Virginia Tech coming last season, 84-71. Both teams are currently struggling for a secure postseason position, with only three games remaining in the regular season.

In their efforts to finalize their roster, Syracuse players are adjusting to recent changes. Freshman guard Elijah Moore, recovering from a toe injury, will be a game-time decision. ‘He looked good in warmups. We’ll see how he feels before the game,’ Autry noted.

The matchup on Saturday is pivotal for both teams, with Syracuse currently in 13th place in the conference standings and Virginia Tech in 12th. A win could significantly improve their chances of qualifying for the ACC Tournament, giving fans another reason to tune in.

Virginia Tech has averaged 69.0 points per game this season, while Syracuse has scored 74.7 points per game. The Hokies struggle defensively, allowing 71.7 points per game, whereas the Orange have allowed 78.0 points on average this season.

Both teams are fighting for pride and postseason survival, and as the Orange look to maintain their newfound momentum, the Hokies will aim to snap out of their slump at home.