Main Story: Virginia Tech opened the 2026-27 season with an 85-39 rout of NC Central, using relentless defense to create transition offense. The Hokies forced 29 turnovers, had 12 steals and held the Eagles to 23.3% shooting. Carleigh Wenzel led Tech with 17 points, while Jessica Dimaro recorded a 13-point, 13-rebound double-double in her debut.

By the Numbers
  • 85-39: Virginia Tech’s final score.
  • 29 turnovers forced; 12 steals.
  • 30 fast-break points and a 52-20 advantage in the paint.
  • 23.3%: NC Central’s field-goal percentage.
  • Six Hokies scored in double figures.
State of Play
  • Tech led 32-10 after the first quarter and 47-14 at halftime.
  • NC Central went 0-for-13 from the floor in the second quarter.
  • The win extended Virginia Tech’s season-opening streak to 13 and its home-opening streak to 14.
What’s Next

Virginia Tech continues opening week against Delaware on Wednesday, Nov. 4. Tipoff is at 6 p.m. on ACC Network Extra.

Bottom Line

Virginia Tech’s defensive pressure set the tone and turned a season opener into a one-sided statement—one backed by balanced scoring and a standout debut from Dimaro.