Former Virginia Tech center Elizabeth Kitley has been drafted by Los Vegas Aces in the 2024 WNBA Draft.
Kitley, a five-year starter for the Hokies, tore her ACL in March right before the NCAA Tournament, ending her collegiate career prematurely. The 6-foot-6 Kitley averaged 22.8 points (fifth in Division I) and 11.4 rebounds per game (sixth in DI) this season before succumbing to her ailment.
She was an integral part of Kenny Brooks’ squad over her career, especially during the Hokies’ run to the Final Four in 2023. She finished her career having been a starter for all 151 games she appeared in. During that time, she was able to amass 2,709 career points (22.0 per game), 1,506 rebounds (12.2), 331 blocks (2.7), and 222 assists (1.8).
Not only that, But Kitley scored 30 or more points eight times this past season, including two instances during her last seven games before the injury. She averaged 25 points per game during that stretch as well.
She scored a career-high of 42 points during her third season in Blacksburg, but likely isn’t a night she looks back fondly on as Viginia Tech was upset by 12-seed Florida Gulf Coast in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. However, that performance set the stage for an impactful final two seasons playing at the collegiate level. It has now led her straight into the WNBA.
Before her injury, Kitley was widely considered to be locked in as a first-round pick in this year’s WNBA draft, given her successful career at Virginia Tech. That was put into doubt after her injury as she will likely miss her first season — but was still able to hear her name called on draft day. After all, her numbers speak for themselves.
Moreover, her impact on Virginia Tech women’s basketball cannot be overstated as Hokies athletic director, Whit Babcock, recently announced that Kitley’s jersey number would be retired. In doing so, also highlighted what she has meant to Virginia Tech and Hokies athletics.
“Elizabeth’s impact on Virginia Tech and women’s basketball transcends statistics,” Babcock said. “Her passion, work ethic and character have left an enduring legacy that is inspiring the next generation. Retiring her jersey is a symbolic gesture of gratitude for the mark she has left on our women’s basketball program and the hearts of Hokie Nation.”
While Kitley will be watching her teammate play from afar this season, fans will be excited to see what Kitley brings to the table during her rookie season in 2025.
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