WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (Interstat) — A surging Virginia Tech looks to continue its best start in years when it visits Wake Forest in an Atlantic Coast Conference men’s basketball matchup Saturday at Joel Coliseum.

The Hokies (12-2) enter conference play riding a seven-game win streak, highlighted by a dramatic 95-85 triple-overtime victory over rival Virginia on Wednesday. Virginia Tech’s 12-2 record matches its best 14-game start since the 1995-96 season.

Wake Forest (9-5) seeks to rebound from a 70-57 road loss to North Carolina State that snapped a three-game win streak. The Demon Deacons are 7-1 at home this season.

The matchup features two of the ACC’s standout forwards. Virginia Tech is powered by Christian Gurdak, who is coming off a monumental performance with 17 points and 19 rebounds in 45 minutes against Virginia. Over his last five games, the junior is averaging 10.4 points and 4.8 rebounds.

Wake Forest will counter with Omaha Biliew, who posted an 18-point, 10-rebound double-double in the loss to NC State. The sophomore forward has scored in double figures in three of his last five contests.

Virginia Tech’s recent success has been a collective effort. Alongside Gurdak, guard Ben Hammond scored 30 points with five assists against Virginia, and forward Amani Hansberry added 17 points and 15 rebounds. The Hokies’ depth will be tested in their first true road game since a Nov. 28 loss at VCU.

For Wake Forest, consistency is key after alternating wins and losses over its past six games. Beyond Biliew, guard Juke Harris averages a team-leading 17.1 points per game and scored 17 against the Wolfpack.

Historically, the series is tight, with Virginia Tech holding a narrow 36-34 edge. The Hokies have won three of the last five meetings, but the Demon Deacons won the most recent game in Winston-Salem.

Saturday’s contest opens the ACC schedule for both teams. Virginia Tech faces a quick turnaround, hosting Stanford next Wednesday. Wake Forest remains home to face Miami (Fla.) on Jan. 7.