BLACKSBURG, Va. — Loyola University Maryland opened with fast on the road Sunday, but a second-quarter surge by Virginia Tech proved the difference in a 64–48 final at Cassell Coliseum.

Koi Sims powered the Greyhounds with 15 points and 13 rebounds, controlling the paint early as Loyola (0–3) led by as many as six in the first quarter and went into the first break up 16–14. Lex Therien matched Sims with 15 points and added eight rebounds, helping Loyola stay within reach deep into the fourth.

The Greyhounds' defensive pressure and physicality at the rim set the tone early, forcing tough looks and holding the Hokies to 24 percent shooting in the opening quarter. Loyola continued to generate interior scoring, finishing with 26 points in the paint — matching Virginia Tech.

A cold stretch in the second and third quarters, however, allowed the Hokies (2–0) to build their lead. The Greyhounds were able to find some momentum in the fourth quarter, as they cut their deficit to single-digit's halfway through the quarter, but could not complete the comeback.

Kimmie Hicks added eight points and three assists for Loyola, while Cristina Garcia and Amandine Amorich each contributed on the defensive end, combining for three steals.

Loyola won the turnover margin on the afternoon, as the Hokies had 16 to Loyola's 15. 

Loyola remains in Virginia, as they will face Radford on Tuesday morning at 11:00 AM.