Unlike last season, the Blacksburg boys basketball team isn’t looking forward to next season after its regularseason finale matchup (Thursday night) with Greenville Tech.

The Wildcats, who missed the playoffs a season ago, clinched third place with a 48- 41 victory over St. Joe’s on Tuesday.

The results of Thursday night’s contest weren’t available at press time.

Blacksburg will open the state playoffs Tuesday at Ware Shoals.

In the Wildcats’ win over St. Joe’s, Marcus Elmore had a huge game with 22 points, 13 rebounds, five steals, four assists and two blocks. Nick Hames contributed 12 points, eight rebounds and four steals.

After trailing by seven at halftime, St Joe’s increased its defensive pressure to close within 32-30 after three quarters.

Blacksburg, though, regained its poise to slowly rebuild its lead. The Wildcats were especially clutch at the free throw line, making six of seven in the fourth quarter.

“Good senior leadership by Marcus, Eric King and Raymond Ellis was a big key,” Blacksburg coach Travis Miller said.

The Wildcats are now 15-6 overall and 9-4 in region play.