Virginia Tech’s women’s basketball program, led by head coach Kenny Brooks, was thrust into national title contention last month, only to have their hopes dashed by a series of setbacks. Brooks, who had coached the Hokies since 2016, announced he would be leaving to take over at Kentucky, leaving behind a highly successful program that he had built over eight years. His departure came on the heels of star player Elizabeth Kitley suffering a season-ending ACL injury, further complicating Virginia Tech’s chances of making a deep run in the NCAA tournament.
The exit of Brooks and several key players marks the end of an era for the Hokies, who had become a competitive force in women’s college basketball under his leadership. Despite the team’s recent success, which included four straight tournament berths and several ACC titles, the loss of key personnel may reshape Virginia Tech’s roster and coaching staff going forward. With uncertainty surrounding the team’s leadership and future direction, the Hokies will need to make a solid hire to continue competing at a high level in the ACC.
Kitley and fellow senior Cayla King, alongside Georgia Amoore, who has an extra year of eligibility, had helped elevate Virginia Tech to new heights during their time with the program. The trio’s contributions, along with the support of loyal fans and the local community, had transformed the Hokies into a powerhouse within the conference and on the national stage. Their departure leaves a void that will need to be filled by incoming talent and a new coaching staff as the program looks toward the future.
Despite the challenges ahead, Virginia Tech’s athletic director, Whit Babcock, expressed confidence in the program’s trajectory and its potential for continued success. With the resources available to student-athletes, particularly in the realm of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities, the Hokies are poised to attract top talent and maintain their competitiveness in a highly competitive conference. Babcock’s optimism suggests that Virginia Tech is well-positioned to rebound from recent setbacks and build upon its foundation of excellence in women’s basketball.
Meanwhile, at Kentucky, Brooks faces the task of reviving a struggling program in the competitive confines of the SEC. Stepping into a conference dominated by powerhouses like South Carolina and LSU, Brooks will need to leverage his coaching acumen and recruiting prowess to elevate the Wildcats back into contention. With a track record of success at Virginia Tech, Brooks brings valuable experience and leadership to a Kentucky team looking to recapture its former glory under his guidance.
As Brooks embarks on a new chapter with the Wildcats, the legacy of his tenure at Virginia Tech will endure, shaping the future of the program and leaving a lasting impact on those who were a part of his successful tenure. The transition marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter for both Virginia Tech and Kentucky, as each program navigates the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the realm of women’s college basketball.
