Virginia Tech Hokies News: Former Coach Makes Another Move, Baseball & Softball Secure Big

Virginia Tech Hokies News: Former Coach Makes Another Move, Baseball & Softball Shine with Key Victories

It seems like former Virginia Tech coach Buzz Williams is once again eyeing a change, as rumors swirl about his potential move to another program. Meanwhile, the Hokies are making waves in both softball and baseball, securing key wins that have fans buzzing with excitement.

The Virginia Tech softball team, coming off a nine-day break after sweeping Longwood in a doubleheader on March 19, returned to action with a bang. In their first-ever ACC series, the Hokies hosted a fierce matchup against the 16th-ranked Stanford Cardinal. And what a thrilling start it was.

Stanford jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the first few innings, with ace Emma Lemley struggling early on. But the Hokies, known for their resilience, quickly flipped the script. After going hitless through the first three innings, they exploded in the fourth with a dramatic three-run home run by Zoe Yaeger, taking a 3-2 lead. Virginia Tech wasn’t done yet, adding an insurance run in the sixth when Annika Rohs drove in a crucial RBI with a groundout.

With a 4-2 lead heading into the seventh, the Hokies had to fend off a late Stanford rally. Despite the Cardinal’s best efforts, Virginia Tech held strong and secured a 4-3 victory to kick off the series in style.

This win marks a pivotal moment for the Hokies, especially as they face off against a nationally ranked opponent for the first time in their ACC history. Game 2 of the series is set for Saturday at 4 p.m., followed by the final game on Sunday at noon. Fans are eagerly watching to see if the Hokies can keep the momentum going and take the series win.

While Buzz Williams might be looking for a new challenge, the Hokies are proving their strength on the field, with both the baseball and softball teams showing great promise early in their respective seasons. With more action on the horizon, Virginia Tech’s athletic programs are setting the stage for an exciting spring.

MUST SEE: Caitlin Clark’s Unique Nike Kobe 5 Protro ‘Indiana Fever’ Set to Drop This Summer

MUST-SEE: Caitlin Clark’s Nike Kobe 5 Protro “Indiana Fever” Set to Drop This Summer Ahead of Signature Shoe Launch

Get ready, sneakerheads and basketball fans—Caitlin Clark’s highly anticipated Nike Kobe 5 Protro “Indiana Fever” is dropping this summer, giving fans a sneak peek at what’s to come before her signature shoe hits shelves in 2026. Clark has become a household name thanks to her explosive performances in the NCAA tournament with the University of Iowa and her impressive rookie season with the Indiana Fever in 2024. Now, her partnership with Nike is about to heat up even more.

Caitlin Clark x Nike Kobe 5 Protro “Indiana Fever”

  • Colorway: Midnight Navy/Bright Crimson
  • SKU: IM3207-400
  • MSRP: $190 USD
  • Release Date: June 1, 2025
  • Where to Buy: Nike SNKRS and select retailers

The “Indiana Fever” edition of the Nike Kobe 5 Protro takes inspiration from Clark’s WNBA team, with a sleek design that incorporates the Fever’s signature navy, red, and gold colors. The deep blue “Midnight Navy” dominates the shoe’s upper, with striking “Bright Crimson” accents appearing on the tongue, laces, heel, and Swooshes. The vibrant red pops against the darker blue, making for an eye-catching design that’s perfect for any sneaker collection.

Clark first debuted this “Indiana Fever” themed Kobe 5 Protro last year, and the buzz surrounding the release has only intensified since. Fans who have been eagerly awaiting her signature sneaker debut in 2026 will not want to miss out on this limited release, as it offers a preview of the future of Caitlin Clark’s footwear line.

While Nike has yet to officially confirm the release of this specific model, it is expected to drop on June 1, 2025, through Nike SNKRS and select retailers for a starting price of $190 USD. Stay tuned for more details, including a full look at this exciting release, as Caitlin Clark continues to make waves both on and off the court.

Pete Carroll Era: Jakorian Bennett Emerging as a Rising Star for the Las Vegas Raiders

Jakorian Bennett: A Rising Star for the Las Vegas Raiders in the Pete Carroll Era

The Las Vegas Raiders may have found a hidden gem in Jakorian Bennett, and with his rapid development, he’s quickly becoming one of the team’s most promising young talents. As the NFL continues to evolve, the Raiders have built a reputation for scouting and developing players with immense potential, and Bennett looks like he could be the next star to emerge from this franchise.

Bennett’s journey to the NFL wasn’t without its challenges, but his performance since joining the Raiders speaks volumes about his skill set and work ethic. After spending his college years at Maryland, Bennett’s athleticism and high football IQ stood out, and it didn’t take long for scouts to take notice. His ability to read plays, combined with his impressive speed and agility, has allowed him to make an immediate impact on the Raiders’ defense.

What makes Bennett even more intriguing is his ability to thrive in the pressure-packed world of the NFL. With Pete Carroll’s influence—who is well-known for nurturing top-tier defensive talent—Bennett’s potential seems limitless. Carroll’s experience in molding standout defensive players during his long tenure with Seattle is already paying dividends for Bennett, as he continues to develop under the guidance of one of the most respected coaches in the league.

Bennett has the traits that every defensive coordinator dreams of. His quick footwork, smart decision-making, and ability to stay composed under pressure give him a strong foundation to become a dominant cornerback in the league. What makes him even more exciting is his versatility—Bennett is proving he can play both in man coverage and zone schemes, which only adds to his value in the Raiders’ defense.

As the Raiders continue to build their team for the future, Jakorian Bennett is proving he’s a key piece of that puzzle. His work ethic, talent, and potential are clear indicators that he’s ready to take the next step and become one of the NFL’s most formidable cornerbacks. With his skill set and leadership under Pete Carroll’s tutelage, Bennett could very well become the next breakout star for the Raiders in the years to come. Keep an eye on this rising star, as the best is yet to come.

Why World Series Champion Thinks Astros Should Tap Into ‘Oil Money’ for Framber Valdez

Why a World Series Champion Believes the Astros Must Find ‘Oil Money’ to Keep Framber Valdez

Framber Valdez has become an indispensable asset for the Houston Astros, and his performance on Opening Day against the New York Mets only reaffirmed his value. With a strong outing, Valdez helped the Astros defeat the Mets 3-1, even spoiling Juan Soto’s highly anticipated debut. As the ace of the staff, Valdez is primed for another stellar season in 2025, and his timing couldn’t be better.

The only catch? Valdez is playing through a contract year. As he nears free agency, the Astros face a significant challenge—securing their ace for the long haul. Valdez is expected to command a hefty salary if he enters the open market, and with numerous teams likely lining up for his services, the Astros need to act quickly.

Former World Series champion Dontrelle Willis has a strong opinion on how the Astros should handle the situation. In a conversation with Chron writer Leah Vann, Willis made it clear that the team cannot afford to let Valdez slip away. His advice? “Sell some brisket, do whatever you gotta do, to me, you can’t lose him,” he said. Willis emphasized how crucial Valdez is, particularly with the Astros’ pitching staff facing fierce competition from teams like Seattle. His ability to throw strikes and miss bats, combined with his resilience in the Astros’ hitter-friendly ballpark, makes him a must-have for Houston.

Willis pointed out that Valdez’s unique skill set is essential for the team, especially given the challenges of pitching in Minute Maid Park, where home runs can be a constant threat. Valdez has the ability to keep hitters at bay, and that’s something the Astros can’t afford to lose.

In Willis’ view, the Astros should do whatever it takes to keep Valdez in an Astros uniform, including tapping into Houston’s oil money if necessary. With Valdez’s potential to be a game-changer for the franchise, it’s clear that his future with the team is of the utmost importance. The Astros must make a strong push to lock down their ace and ensure he remains a cornerstone of their pitching staff for years to come.

Virginia Tech Baseball Clinches Major Series Win Over Wake Forest with Offensive Surge

Virginia Tech Baseball Dominates Wake Forest, Clinches Series Victory with Explosive Offense

Virginia Tech baseball made a bold statement this weekend, securing a massive series win over 16th-ranked Wake Forest. After a strong performance the previous week against Louisville, the Hokies were looking to build momentum in ACC play, but the task of defeating the Demon Deacons in their home ballpark was no easy feat. Wake Forest has been one of the top teams in the nation, particularly on their home turf, making the Hokies’ success even more impressive.

The series kicked off with a bang on Friday night. Virginia Tech unleashed an offensive onslaught, overwhelming Wake Forest with a dominant 13-2 victory in just eight innings. The Hokies wasted no time, scoring an incredible nine runs in the first inning alone, leaving the Demon Deacons stunned. The early barrage put the game out of reach, and Virginia Tech cruised to a commanding win that set the tone for the rest of the series.

On Saturday afternoon, the Hokies came out just as strong in Game 2. They jumped to an 8-0 lead in the first two and a half innings, showcasing their powerful offense once again. Though Wake Forest mounted a rally later in the game, Virginia Tech’s offense held firm, and the Hokies hung on for a 10-7 victory, sealing the series win. This impressive performance not only marked a huge achievement for the Hokies but also showcased their ability to perform under pressure against one of the nation’s top-ranked teams.

Now, with the series in hand, Virginia Tech has their sights set on a potential road sweep as they prepare for Sunday’s finale against Wake Forest. If they can continue their offensive dominance, the Hokies will make a major statement in the ACC and solidify their place as a team to watch this season.

This series win against Wake Forest is a clear sign that Virginia Tech is hitting its stride. Their explosive offense, combined with timely pitching and solid defense, has them primed for a strong finish to the season. The Hokies’ momentum is building, and with each game, they’re proving they have what it takes to compete with the best teams in the country.

5 Carolina Panthers Players Facing the Roster Bubble After 2025 Free Agency

5 Carolina Panthers Players at Risk of the Roster Bubble After 2025 Free Agency

As the 2025 offseason unfolds, Carolina Panthers GM Dan Morgan isn’t wasting any time. Despite the team showing some promise toward the end of the previous season, finishing with just five wins, it was clear the Panthers were still far from playoff contention. This reality called for bold moves, and Morgan wasn’t about to sit idly by.

From the outset, Morgan made it clear that the Panthers would be aggressive in free agency. His words matched his actions, as the front-office leader took swift, decisive steps to improve the roster. After addressing the team’s glaring needs, particularly on the defensive side of the ball, it became apparent that Morgan was focused on building a more competitive squad to help head coach Dave Canales thrive in Year 2.

The Panthers’ defense, under Ejiro Evero, had a rough 2024 campaign, setting records for all the wrong reasons. In response, Morgan targeted key investments to bolster the defense, especially in the trenches and the safety positions. New players were brought in to strengthen the edge rush and deepen the linebacker group, which had been a weakness in the past. These moves are designed to revamp the defense and put the team in a better position to compete.

However, while these acquisitions are crucial for the team’s success, they also spell trouble for some current Panthers players. The influx of new talent means there’s a good chance that several familiar faces could be on the chopping block. Morgan has shown no hesitation in making tough decisions, focusing purely on improving the team’s chances and pushing sentiment aside. This shift in roster construction could lead to some surprising cuts as the Panthers look to streamline their lineup.

As the 2025 season approaches, the pressure is on for several players to prove their worth. With the roster now more competitive and a focus on performance over loyalty, those on the fringe could find themselves fighting for their spots. The moves made in free agency have set the stage for an intense training camp, with some familiar names potentially facing the harsh reality of the roster bubble.

Virginia Tech Named in Top 7 for Elite In-State Wide Receiver in the Class of 2026

Virginia Tech Among Top 7 for Elite In-State Wide Receiver in the Class of 2026

Virginia Tech football has once again positioned itself as a top contender in recruiting, this time for an elite wide receiver from within the state. As the Hokies continue to build momentum on the recruiting trail, Coach Brent Pry and his staff are making big strides with a highly sought-after prospect in the Class of 2026. And it’s no surprise—Virginia Tech has been on a roll when it comes to recruiting in their home state.

Since taking over as head coach, Pry has placed a heavy emphasis on recruiting within the Commonwealth of Virginia, recognizing that securing top in-state talent would be key to turning the program around. His efforts have paid off, with the Hokies bringing in a strong mix of high school recruits and transfer portal additions. The success in Virginia has become a hallmark of Pry’s tenure, and it seems his strategy is continuing to reap rewards.

Now, Virginia Tech finds itself in the mix for one of the most coveted wide receivers in the Class of 2026—an athlete that has already caught the attention of several top-tier programs. The Hokies are one of the seven schools that have made the cut for this elite talent, competing with some of the biggest names in college football. This is a clear sign that Virginia Tech’s recruiting efforts under Pry are starting to gain national recognition, as they go toe-to-toe with powerhouses for top-tier players.

Recruiting in Virginia has always been an essential piece of the puzzle for Virginia Tech’s success, and under Pry, the Hokies are putting a strong emphasis on keeping the state’s best talent close to home. With the addition of offensive coordinator Fontel Mines, who has been instrumental in developing relationships with in-state recruits, Virginia Tech’s pursuit of this elite wide receiver is just the latest example of how seriously they’re taking recruiting efforts.

As the race heats up for this coveted wideout, Virginia Tech is poised to continue building on its recruiting success. With the program on the rise, this elite receiver could be the next big piece in helping Coach Pry and the Hokies elevate their offense to new heights. Stay tuned as this exciting recruitment continues to unfold!

CBS Sports Suggests a ‘Win-Win’ Draft Trade Scenario for the Vikings

CBS Sports Proposes a ‘Win-Win’ Trade Scenario for the Vikings in the 2025 NFL Draft

As we approach the 2025 NFL Draft, the Minnesota Vikings are facing an interesting decision: Should they keep their #24 pick, or could trading down be the better move? While some fans argue in favor of staying put, many believe trading down would give the team more flexibility to strengthen their roster. CBS Sports recently highlighted a potential trade that could benefit both the Vikings and the Buffalo Bills, and at first glance, it certainly seems like a deal worth considering.

Chad Reuter of CBS Sports has put together a list of six “win-win” trade proposals for the upcoming draft, and one of them involves a deal between the Vikings and the Bills. According to Reuter’s scenario, Buffalo would move up to the Vikings’ #24 overall pick, with Minnesota receiving the Bills’ #30 pick along with two additional fourth-round selections—#109 (from Chicago through Buffalo) and #132 (from Buffalo).

So, what does this trade mean for the Vikings? First, it gives them more opportunities to build their future. With this trade, the Vikings would still remain in the first round, holding the #30 pick, and they would add four more picks to their total—giving them six selections in the 2025 Draft:

  • #30 (Round 1, from Buffalo)
  • #97 (Round 3, Compensatory Pick)
  • #109 (Round 4, from Chicago via Buffalo)
  • #132 (Round 4, from Buffalo)
  • #139 (Round 5, from Cleveland)
  • #187 (Round 6, from San Francisco)

This could provide the Vikings with valuable assets to either continue building through the draft or even trade up if they see an opportunity they can’t pass up. While they would lose out on a second-round pick, the added flexibility of a handful of Day 3 picks could give the Vikings a chance to add depth across multiple positions. Additionally, with their position still within the first round, Minnesota could potentially make another trade to move up again, depending on how the draft unfolds.

Reuter also notes that the Bills have been particularly aggressive in recent drafts, often moving up to select players they covet. This scenario could be an opportunity for Buffalo to secure a target earlier in the first round, while the Vikings could stockpile more valuable picks to use at their discretion.

What do you think about this potential move? Could trading down be the right strategy for the Vikings, or should they hold on to their original position and make their pick at #24? Let us know your thoughts on this intriguing trade proposal!

Reigning World Champion Masanosuke Ono of Japan Commits to Penn State Wrestling

Reigning World Champion Masanosuke Ono from Japan Commits to Penn State Wrestling

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the wrestling world, Penn State Wrestling has secured one of the most surprising and exciting commitments imaginable. Just 36 hours after a dominant performance that shattered NCAA tournament records, the Nittany Lions landed a commitment from none other than Masanosuke Ono, the reigning World Champion from Japan.

At just 20 years old, Ono became the talk of the wrestling world last October when he stormed through the Senior Freestyle World Championships in Albania. With explosive athleticism and impeccable technique, Ono defeated former Olympic Champion Zavur Uguev and defending World Champion Vito Arujau, ultimately claiming the 61kg World Title. After his victory, Ono made waves in the wrestling community when he announced, in broken English, that he planned to train “at Penn State.”

What started as a brief visit turned into a full-fledged stay at Happy Valley, where Ono trained with the Nittany Lion Wrestling Club in preparation for an upcoming match against former Iowa standout and Olympic Silver Medalist Spencer Lee—a match that Ono won. During this time, speculation ran wild, with some jokingly wondering if Ono might end up wrestling for Penn State’s collegiate Folkstyle team.

Now, that speculation has become reality. Ono recently confirmed on FloWrestling Radio Live, and later through his Instagram, that he will officially join Penn State’s Folkstyle team. As for the details, Ono remained playful yet cryptic. While he joked that he could compete anywhere from 125lbs to 157lbs, it seems most likely that he will wrestle at 133lbs or 141lbs—weight classes that will offer some thrilling matchups in the coming seasons.

Ono’s decision to join the prestigious Penn State Wrestling program is a massive win for the team and a statement of intent for the Nittany Lions as they continue to build a dynasty in the sport. With his world-class experience and remarkable skill set, Ono’s presence on the roster is sure to elevate the program to new heights. Fans and analysts alike will be watching eagerly as Ono transitions into the Folkstyle format and prepares to make an immediate impact on the collegiate scene.

Virginia Tech Set to Host Top Recruits and Notable Family Connections This Saturday

Virginia Tech to Welcome Elite Recruits and Key Family Connections This Saturday

This Saturday, Virginia Tech is set to roll out the red carpet for a group of highly sought-after recruits and several with significant family ties to the program. After an impressive turnout last weekend, where more than 20 recruits visited to meet with coaches, watch spring practice, and get a feel for Hokies football, the program is ready for another big recruiting day that could shape the future of their roster.

The Hokies’ commitment to recruiting is evident in the lineup of visitors this weekend. Some of the most promising recruits in the 2025 class will be on hand, providing head coach Brent Pry and his staff an excellent opportunity to continue building relationships with the next wave of talent. These recruits will have the chance to witness firsthand what Virginia Tech has to offer—whether it’s the campus atmosphere, the passionate coaching staff, or the family-oriented culture that the Hokies are known for.

In addition to the top-tier recruits, several visitors have unique family connections to Virginia Tech, which adds an intriguing layer to the weekend. With several players’ relatives having played for the Hokies, these visits have the potential to strengthen bonds and bring a sense of tradition and loyalty to the recruiting process. For Virginia Tech, fostering these family ties can lead to long-term success, as recruits with personal connections to the school often develop a deeper sense of commitment to the program.

The Hokies’ recruiting strategy is focused not only on securing elite talent but also on creating a welcoming environment where players and their families feel like part of the Hokies family from day one. This balance of high-profile recruits and familiar faces promises to make Saturday’s visit an exciting and crucial day in Virginia Tech’s recruiting efforts.

As the Hokies continue to ramp up their recruiting efforts, this weekend’s visit could play a pivotal role in landing key players for the future. With strong family connections and a stellar group of recruits in attendance, Virginia Tech is positioning itself for another successful recruiting class. The excitement is building, and this Saturday’s visitors will be ones to watch in the coming years.