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Alexa Philippou, ESPN
Three-time ACC Player of the Year Elizabeth Kitley tore her left ACL in the final regular-season game against the Virginia Tech Hokies and will miss the NCAA Tournament, coach Kenny Brooks told reporters Thursday. Ta.
The news was a devastating blow to the program and Kitley, who returned for a fifth year of eligibility in hopes of leading Virginia Tech back to the Final Four.
“Due to a knee injury sustained on March 3rd, I will not be participating in this year's NCAA Tournament,” Kitley wrote on Instagram. “While we never expected our team's year to end this way, I'm very proud of our accomplishments and can't wait to see our girls continue competing. Hokies・Thank you Nation for joining us.'' “You have been so supportive during this difficult time. We look forward to a strong comeback.''
Kitley, a 6-foot-6 forward and three-time All-American, spent his first year with the Hokies, averaging 22.8 points, 11.4 rebounds and 2.1 blocks while leading Virginia Tech to its first ACC regular season crown. . In the process, she became the ACC's all-time leader in rebounding and set a conference record for double-doubles.
”[It’s been] difficult [for Kitley]” said Virginia Tech coach Kenny Brooks. I got emotional. I think we probably exchange emails about 30 times a day. She will get better, but she will be sad afterwards. This kid has put everything into this and we're here because of her. We're here because of her…That kid ate, slept and drank basketball, but it was all about Hokie basketball. ”
After a bit of a slow start, the Hokies looked poised to make another strong showing in March following last year's ACC Tournament win and the program's first Final Four appearance. However, while the Hokies will be without a program changer in Kitley, they will still have star point guard Georgia Amoore leading the team.
No. 4 seed Virginia Tech will host No. 13 seed Marshall in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Friday at 3:30 p.m. on ESPN2.
