Mike Young, Amani Hansberry Stand By Neoklis Avdalas Amidst ACC Play Struggles

There was plenty of preseason hype surrounding Virginia Tech's Greek freshman guard Neoklis Avdalas given his first round NBA Draft talent and recruiting rating that had him alongside Nickeil Alexander-Walker as the most talented freshman in program history. Add in a strong early start including a tremendous performance in the second game of the season against Providence and the hype train was full steam ahead.

However, Avdalas has run into a rut during ACC play that has led to growing frustration especially from fans.

Avdalas has struggled mightily during the first ten games of ACC play, shooting 29.8% (34-114) from the field including a rough 17.3% (9-52) from three-point range plus 68.6% (24-35) from the free-throw line. During that stretch, Avdalas is averaging only 10.1 points, 4.7 assists, 2.7 rebounds, and 2.8 turnovers per game; well off his strong numbers during the first 13 non-conference games of the season.

His struggles continued in Virginia Tech's 72-58 home loss to No. 4 Duke as he had only five points on 1-8 shooting including 0-4 from three-point range plus four assists, four rebounds, and three turnovers. His game included plenty of groans and even boos from the crowd, Duke not sending anyone out to even put a hint of pressure on an open Avdalas three-point attempt, and a turnover by Avdalas with 5.5 minute left that led for Amani Hansberry and Ben Hammond both having expressive reactions to Avdalas after before Mike Young took him aside one-on-one during the MTO.

Avdalas' day ended with Jailen Bedford being subbed in for him with just over four minutes to go to a roar of cheers from the student section. It was a culmination of a day of struggles for Avdalas and fan frustration expressed in a way never seen towards a VT basketball player previously.

After the game, Mike Young shared his thoughts on what is behind Avdalas' struggles while also standing right by Avdalas amidst his struggles.