The Virginia Tech Hokies recovered nicely from their NCAA Tournament snub, routing Bethune-Cookman in the first round of the NIT. The Hokies won 79-54, taking an early lead and never letting up to advance to the second round.
The Hokies left no doubt early on, jumping ahead early and eventually taking an 18-point halftime lead on the MEAC regular-season champs in getting the victory. Bethune-Cookman was the best team in an improved MEAC, but they had no chance against a borderline NCAA club like Virginia Tech.
Jeff Allen led the way with 19 points, while Malcolm Delaney added 13 for the Hokies. Garrius Holloman led Bethune-Cookman with 20 off the bench. The Hokes shot 56 percent from the field as a team, as their size completely overwhelmed the MEAC regular-season champions.
The Hokies will next take on Wichita State on Sunday. The Shockers defeated Nebraska in the first round on Monday.