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Virginia Tech honored former standout Liz Kitley by retiring her jersey, a fitting tribute to her remarkable contributions to the women’s basketball program. Kitley, a three-time ACC Player of the Year, solidified her legacy as one of the most decorated players in Hokies history during her five-year career.

Virginia Tech recently celebrated the remarkable career of Kitley by retiring her jersey number, 33, during a special ceremony at Cassell Coliseum. The event, marked by a sellout crowd, highlighted Kitley’s significant contributions to the women’s basketball program and her lasting impact on the sport. As she watched her jersey ascend to the rafters, Kitley was visibly moved by the honor bestowed upon her.


Virginia Tech Celebrates Liz Kitley With Major Honor 1 Apr 15, 2024; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Elizabeth Kitley before the 2024 WNBA Draft at Brooklyn Academy of Music. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Kitley, who played for the Hokies from 2019 to 2024, is recognized as one of the most decorated players in the program’s history. She holds numerous records, including those for career points, rebounds, and double-doubles in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). Her stellar performance helped lead the Hokies to a Final Four appearance in 2023 and their first ACC regular-season title in 2024, solidifying her place in Virginia Tech lore.

During the ceremony, Kitley expressed her gratitude to the fans and the university community, emphasizing the importance of support for current players. She urged fans to continue attending games, stating, “These girls are playing their butts off and they deserve you in the stands every single game.” Her heartfelt speech resonated with attendees, showcasing her dedication to the program even after her playing days.

Virginia Tech Celebrates WNBA Star Liz Kitley By Retiring Her Jersey


Virginia Tech Celebrates Liz Kitley With Major Honor 2 Apr 15, 2024; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Elizabeth Kitley poses with WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert after being selected with the number twenty-four overall pick to the Las Vegas Aces in the 2024 WNBA Draft at Brooklyn Academy of Music. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Kitley’s college run with the Hokies has been immortalized by Virginia Tech via a jersey retirement ceremony. This can be seen in a post shared by ACC Network on Instagram.

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A post shared by ACCN (@accnetwork)

Athletic Director Whit Babcock praised Kitley’s influence, noting that her legacy transcends statistics. “Her passion, work ethic, and character have left an enduring legacy that inspires the next generation,” he said. This acknowledgment of Kitley’s contributions underscores the impact she has made on and off the court.


Virginia Tech Celebrates Liz Kitley With Major Honor 3 Oct 24, 2023; Charlotte, NC, USA; Virginia Tech player Elizabeth Kitley during the ACC Womens Tipoff at Hilton Charlotte Uptown. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports

Kitley’s jersey retirement serves as a testament to her exceptional career and the indelible mark she has left on Virginia Tech women’s basketball. As her number hangs proudly in the rafters, it will continue to inspire future generations of athletes striving for greatness.


Virginia Tech Celebrates Liz Kitley With Major Honor 4 Mar 31, 2023; Dallas, TX, USA; LSU Lady Tigers guard Alexis Morris (45) shoots against Virginia Tech Hokies center Elizabeth Kitley (33) in the second half in semifinals of the women’s Final Four of the 2023 NCAA Tournament at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

This article first appeared on Hardwood Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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