Buzz Williams raves about Louisville

Virginia Tech gave a valiant effort against the Louisville Cardinals Saturday at the KFC Yum! Center, falling 94-90. The Hokies were on fire from the three-point line, going 17-of-26.

Virginia Tech coach Buzz Williams has never been one to shy away from complimenting the Cardinals.

“I think Louisville is a one-seed, no worse than a two-seed,” Williams said. “This is one of the best arenas in the country. Coach Pitino has been in the Hall of Fame and deservingly so. He’s ahead in every way. So we have our hands full if we are playing with a full boat.”

The Hokies weren't playing with a "full boat," missing leading rebounder Chris Clarke.

Williams also took time to praise Louisville guard Donovan Mitchell, who was the response to Virginia Tech’s high-powered offense, scoring 26 points.

“He’s an elite level player. Elite level," Williams said. "He can score on all three levels. Great body. Great body control. Very physical. Because he’s so strong, he’s deceptively, in my opinion, an elite level athlete. He’s very good.”

This is the first and only meeting between the Cardinals and Hokies in the regular season. The two teams could meet again in the ACC Tournament.