As the Virginia Tech Hokies wrapped up their 2025-26 season, guard Mackenzie Nelson didn't mince words: “I just don’t think we came ready to play.”
The Hokies bowed out to Oregon, 70-60, in the NCAA Tournament's first round in Austin, Texas.
“Just so proud of our team,” Hokies head coach Megan Duffy reflected. “Today wasn’t our best, but watching the growth from summertime to now has been a joy. Today is disappointing, but I’m really excited about what they’ve accomplished this season.”
The game started rough for the Hokies, as they were outscored 22-11 in the first quarter, shooting just 4-of-18 while the Ducks hit 10-of-14.
“We got a little razzled in the beginning,” Nelson admitted. “We calmed down a bit.”
Oregon stretched their lead to 13 early in the second quarter, but Tech’s bench sparked a comeback, narrowing the gap to two points midway through.
Forward Mel Daley contributed eight points, and sophomore forward Kayl Petersen’s three-pointer chipped away at the deficit.
“They were great,” Duffy praised the bench. “Seeing them step up in a huge NCAA moment was phenomenal.”
But two points was as close as the Hokies would get. Oregon led by six at halftime and dominated the third quarter with an 18-0 run, capitalizing on Tech’s missed shots and fouls, pushing the lead to 22.
“They capitalized on our mistakes,” said forward Carys Baker. “We didn’t close the gap, and our defense didn’t communicate fast enough.”
Tech rallied in the fourth with brief scoring runs, but it wasn’t enough. Baker hit a deep shot with two seconds left, trimming the deficit to 10, but Oregon advanced to face Texas.
Baker led the Hokies with 21 points, shooting 8-of-15 and 5-of-8 from three, along with 14 rebounds. No other Hokie hit double figures.
The team shot just 31.8% - their lowest since a February win over Georgia Tech.
“Oregon is a strong defensive team,” Nelson noted. “They’re physical and connected, which made scoring tough. But we missed easy shots we usually make.”
The loss concluded Duffy’s second year in Blacksburg, a season marked by a four-game improvement and a return to the NCAA Tournament.
“This has been a fun group to coach,” Duffy said. “They make me laugh and drive me crazy, but they’re good young women learning to build a program and love each other.”
“On the court, players took on new roles. Mackenzie improved as a point guard, while Carleigh and Carys carried a lot. Their hearts are always in the right place.”