Sat Jan 03 16:10:00 UTC 2026: Here’s a summarized news article based on the provided text:

Hokies Face Wake Forest Test After Grueling OT Win, Injury Concerns Loom

BLACKSBURG, VA – Virginia Tech (12-2) will look to carry momentum into a Saturday afternoon matchup against Wake Forest (9-5) after a hard-fought triple-overtime victory over Virginia on Wednesday. However, the Hokies enter the game with several key players nursing injuries, creating uncertainty for the ACC battle.

Tobi Lawal, Tyler Johnson, and Antonio Dorn remain sidelined, and the status of point forward Neoklis Avdalas is in question after he rolled his ankle late in the game against Virginia. The Hokies will need strong performances from Amani Hansberry, who is averaging a stellar 16.3 points and 8.9 rebounds, and freshman Christian Gurdak, who recently exploded for 17 points and 19 rebounds.

Wake Forest, led by Juke Harris averaging 19.7 points and 6.7 rebounds, will look to exploit Virginia Tech’s potential rebounding weaknesses. While Wake Forest’s record may not reflect their potential, they’ve played close games against top-ranked opponents. The Demon Deacons have perimeter shooting threats in Myles Colvin and Mekhi Mason.

Analysts predict a close game, with Virginia Tech having a slight edge but also recognizing the Deamon Deacons recent poor results against strong teams. The game tips off at noon on the ACC Network, and a pre-game injury report will be crucial in determining how both teams game plan for a matchup.

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