Hokie Nation,
I know there will be a ton of chatter on possible attrition etc but having an objective view on the reality of the situation should ease your concerns. Is TJ Lang et al, going to go anywhere else now that JJ has been let go?? probably somewhat unlikely. Will any current players leave? who knows but I think letting JJ go actually helps in all these areas and will keep the current players engaged.
Lets call a spade a spade, the program has been an utter train wreck for the last 2-3 years and these guys have had their faces ripped off one game after another... they are superior athletes and huge competitors having accomplished what they all have done in their lives and have a burning desire to improve.. simply put they want to WIN too!! After the initial shock of the termination, they probably will be excited about the new direction and Whit's emphasis on the BBall program and his willingness to go about this in a way that hopefully will stand the test of time. I believe the whole team will be re-energized and look at the silver lining and see how this is a net net huge benefit.
Comments
The way I see it, why would you be excited to go play for a guy that only got 9 wins this year? As a recruit, I'd be more interested to commit to VT for a better chance at early playing time. New coach = clean slate and equal playing opportunity to showcase talent from day 1 along with all the returners. For the current roster, you gotta be excited about the opportunity for a new direction in the program unless you really don't want to be at VT anymore.