Megan Duffy introduced as next Virginia Tech women's basketball coach

BLACKSBURG, Va. (WCYB) — The next chapter of Virginia Tech women's hoops began on Friday morning with the introduction of the program's next head coach - Megan Duffy.

In a quick arrival, Duffy made her way to Blacksburg to address Hokie Nation after being hired as the next in line to lead the team on Wednesday.

In the opening remarks from Director of Athletics, Whit Babcock, he praised not just Duffy for being there, but a shoutout to all of Blacksburg's support to turn the women's program into what it is today.

"Many memorable moments have occured in this building over the past 60 years and we're looking forward to many more in the years to come. Today is the start to that next chapter," said Babcock. "In the last several years, this program has gone from a contender, to a championship brand."

In taking this position, Duffy made it clear to everyone in attendance that she has immense gratitude and support for every person who helped put the program on a national scale of importance - from former coach Kenny Brooks, to the players on this past season's team.

In turn, Duffy pointed out that she is eager to keep the buzz in Blacksburg still alive and well.

When this job opened up, I was really motivated to say, 'hey let's keep this going,'" said Duffy. "So congratulations to them and the student-athletes who helped make all the memories, wins, championships possible.

And despite major losses to the program - including Georgia Amoore and Carla Strack's movement to the transfer portal, along with Liz Kitley's move to the next level - Duffy believes there is still a fire in the program that won't be relinquished.

"What I found with this current team is they have a drive and a passion. And they have a belief like I do in sustaining what we're doing," added Duffy. "It's going to take a lot of work, which we know. There's still a lot of pieces to fill in, but I appreciate the commitment to excellence and building over these last few years."

Duffy spent two seasons at Miami (OH) and the last five seasons as the head coach at Marquette - where she accumulated over 150 wins and three NCAA Tournament appearances.

Now, she takes over for a program that continues to have high aspirations despite the disappointing exit in the second round this past season, on top of the loss of Kenny Brooks.