Virginia Tech Basketball: Hokies Land UNLV Transfer Jailen Bedford
Blacksburg, VA — In a move that has electrified the Virginia Tech fanbase, head coach Mike Young has secured a significant addition to the Hokies’ roster for the upcoming season. Jailen Bedford, the highly touted transfer from UNLV, has committed to Virginia Tech, bringing with him a blend of athleticism, versatility, and defensive intensity that immediately bolsters the team’s backcourt and wing depth.
Bedford, a 6-foot-6 guard/forward hybrid, spent two seasons with the Runnin’ Rebels, where he developed a reputation as a lockdown perimeter defender and emerging offensive threat. Last season, he averaged 10.2 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game, shooting 45% from the field and 36% from beyond the arc. Known for his high motor and tenacious on-ball pressure, Bedford was often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best perimeter player — a responsibility he embraced with pride.
The announcement of his transfer came via a video posted to social media, showing Bedford walking through Cassell Coliseum at sunrise, donning maroon and orange, ending with the words “Time to take flight.” The post quickly went viral among Hokie Nation, signaling not just a roster update but a cultural shift in the program’s trajectory.
For Coach Young, Bedford’s commitment fills a critical gap left by the departure of several upperclassmen and transfers. “Jailen brings an edge to our team,” Young said in a press release. “He’s the kind of competitor who changes the tone of practice the moment he steps on the floor. We’re thrilled to add someone of his caliber to our family.”
Analysts have already begun projecting Bedford as a key starter, likely sliding into the wing position where his two-way presence can be maximized. His length and agility allow him to defend multiple positions, and his improving three-point shot provides needed spacing in Tech’s motion-heavy offense. In particular, his synergy with returning point guard Sean Pedulla could make for one of the ACC’s most dynamic guard duos.
While Bedford has yet to play a game in Blacksburg, the expectations are high. A native of Dallas, Texas, he was a 4-star recruit out of high school and had offers from multiple Power Five programs before choosing UNLV. His decision to transfer, sources say, was driven by a desire to compete at a higher level and pursue a deep NCAA tournament run — something he believes is possible with the Hokies.
Virginia Tech finished last season with a 19-14 record and narrowly missed out on the NCAA Tournament. With the addition of Bedford, along with a strong incoming freshman class, the program is poised to reassert itself in the ACC hierarchy.
“He’s a dog,” one assistant coach said. “He plays like every possession matters. That’s what we need.”
As the Hokies begin their offseason workouts, all eyes will be on Jailen Bedford — a new face with old-school grit, ready to leave his mark on Hokie hoops.
