Virginia Tech Tops Florida State in Close ACC Matchup

Hokies earn key home win to boost NCAA Tournament hopes

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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After picking up a big win over Clemson earlier this week, the Virginia Tech Hokies hosted the Florida State Seminoles in an important ACC matchup. The Hokies, who are squarely on the NCAA Tournament bubble, needed this home victory to continue their momentum and improve their postseason chances.

Why it matters

This game was crucial for Virginia Tech's NCAA Tournament hopes, as they look to secure a spot in the Big Dance. The Hokies have a tough remaining schedule, so this home win over Florida State was a key step in solidifying their resume.

The details

The Hokies were led by strong performances from forwards Tobi Lawal and Ben Hammond. Lawal recorded a double-double with 17 points and 13 rebounds, while Hammond scored 19 points and had 4 steals. The Hokies were efficient from the free throw line, going 13-for-13. On the other side, Florida State has given some of the top ACC teams trouble this season, making this a tough matchup for Virginia Tech.

  • The two teams have met 65 times since 1968, with Florida State holding a 38-26 advantage in the series.
  • In ACC play, Virginia Tech is 21-28 all-time and 9-16 against the Seminoles.
  • The Hokies won the regular season meeting last year in Tallahassee, 76-66.

The players

Tobi Lawal

Virginia Tech Hokies forward who recorded a 17-point, 13-rebound double-double in the win.

Ben Hammond

Virginia Tech guard who scored 19 points, including 3 three-pointers, and had 4 steals.

Jailen Bedford

Virginia Tech guard who led all scorers with 23 points, his fourth 20-point game in ACC play.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The Hokies have a tough remaining schedule, including road games against Miami, North Carolina, and Virginia. Each of those contests will be crucial as they look to solidify their NCAA Tournament resume.

The takeaway

This win over Florida State was an important step for Virginia Tech as they look to secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament. The Hokies showed resilience and got key contributions from their top players to earn the home victory and keep their momentum going.