A Renewed Rivalry
The ACC/SEC Challenge will make its fourth appearance in 2026, pitting the powerhouses of the Atlantic Coast and Southeastern Conferences against each other in a high‑stakes basketball showcase. Virginia Tech’s men’s team is slated to host Ole Miss on December 1, while the Lady Hokies will welcome the Tennessee Lady Volunteers two days later on December 3. Both games will be played on the Hokies’ home court, adding another layer of excitement for the campus crowd.
Historically, the SEC has held a slight edge in the overall series, but the Hokies have carved out a notable advantage over Ole Miss, holding a 3‑2 record in their five previous encounters. The most recent showdown saw Virginia Tech edge out South Carolina 86‑83 in a thrilling finish, a victory that underscored the team’s resilience and depth.
On the women’s side, the Lady Hokies have been particularly dominant, winning four of the last five meetings with Tennessee and securing a 73‑64 triumph in the 2023 Sweet Sixteen. Their consistency has translated into frequent NCAA Tournament appearances, with five of the past six seasons ending in a berth. This season, however, the women’s team fell in the opening round to the Oregon Ducks, a reminder that even the most successful programs face occasional setbacks.
The upcoming games also highlight the continuity of leadership on the men’s side. Under the guidance of head coach Buzz Williams, who coached the Hokies during the 2016 and 2017 matchups against Ole Miss, the program has maintained a steady trajectory. Veteran forward Kerry Blackshear was instrumental in the 2017 overtime victory, leading five Hokies in double‑digit scoring with 17 points.
While the men’s team has missed the NCAA Tournament for four consecutive seasons, the women’s program’s recent track record offers a contrasting narrative of sustained competitiveness. As the 2026 Challenge approaches, both squads will look to leverage their historical strengths and current form to add another chapter to a rivalry that continues to shape the ACC/SEC narrative.