Virginia Tech Freshman Neoklis Avdalas Enters Transfer Portal

Highly touted recruit struggled to find consistency during ACC play.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 2:03pm

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Neoklis Avdalas, a 6-foot-9 freshman guard from Greece, will enter the NCAA transfer portal after just one season at Virginia Tech. Avdalas averaged 12.1 points, 4.6 assists and 3.1 rebounds per game, but his production dropped off significantly once ACC play began, leading to him sitting out key minutes late in the season.

Why it matters

Avdalas was one of the most highly anticipated recruits to ever come to Virginia Tech, so his early departure is a disappointment for the program. His struggles against tougher ACC competition raise questions about his readiness for the professional level, which he was expected to pursue after just one year in Blacksburg.

The details

Avdalas had some bright spots, including a 33-point performance in an overtime win over Providence and a 30-point game against Western Carolina. However, he shot just 5-of-21 in the ACC opener against Virginia and had several games with 2 or 5 points. In Virginia Tech's season-ending ACC Tournament loss, Avdalas sat for the final 7 minutes of regulation and overtime.

  • Avdalas finished his freshman season at Virginia Tech in March 2026.
  • He will now enter the NCAA transfer portal.

The players

Neoklis Avdalas

A 6-foot-9 freshman guard from Kalamata, Greece who played one season at Virginia Tech.

Virginia Tech Hokies

The men's basketball team at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in Blacksburg, Virginia.

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What they’re saying

“The expectation was that Avdalas would play one year in Blacksburg and enter the 2026 NBA Draft. However, ACC play exposed his struggles against tougher, more athletic competition.”

— Bryan Manning, Author

What’s next

Avdalas will now explore transfer options with the goal of improving his draft stock ahead of the 2026 NBA Draft.

The takeaway

Avdalas' early departure from Virginia Tech is a setback for the program, as he was expected to be a key piece. His struggles against ACC competition highlight the challenges some highly touted international recruits face in adjusting to the physicality and athleticism of major college basketball.