Ben Hammond Commits to Virginia Tech, Rejects BYU and Alabama in Stunning Move
In a move that has shocked the college basketball world, Ben Hammond — the electric 6’2″ point guard out of Richmond, Virginia — has fully committed to play for the Virginia Tech Hokies, turning down late pushes from BYU and perennial SEC powerhouse Alabama. After months of speculation and swirling rumors, Hammond made his decision public during a press conference at his high school gym, flanked by family, coaches, and a noticeably proud Hokies hat resting confidently on the table in front of him.
“I’m home,” Hammond said with a wide grin. “I’ve always believed in building something where your roots run deepest, and Virginia Tech is where I see myself growing — on the court, in the classroom, and as a leader.”
Hammond, who’s been lighting up national showcases with his jaw-dropping court vision and fearless drives to the rim, had narrowed his final three choices to Alabama, BYU, and Virginia Tech in late March. While many recruiting insiders had leaned toward Alabama’s NBA-style offense or BYU’s aggressive pitch on immediate playing time, it was the steady, personal touch of Hokies head coach Mike Young that ultimately swayed the young star.
According to sources close to the recruitment, Coach Young visited Hammond’s family nearly every week throughout the spring, making it clear that Hammond wasn’t just another piece in the puzzle — he was the centerpiece. The Hokies offered not only the opportunity to start as a freshman but also the promise of leading a backcourt revolution in Blacksburg.
“He’s got that edge,” Coach Young said after the announcement. “Ben is the kind of player that lifts the ceiling of an entire program. We’re building something serious, and he’s going to be at the heart of it.”
Hammond’s high school career has been the stuff of legend. Averaging 23.5 points, 7.8 assists, and 3.2 steals per game his senior year, he led the Richmond Royals to back-to-back state titles and earned a reputation as a floor general with ice in his veins. Analysts have called him a mix of Ja Morant’s explosiveness and Tyrese Haliburton’s court IQ — high praise, but not unwarranted.
Alabama and BYU aren’t leaving empty-handed, though both staffs were reportedly blindsided by the decision. BYU had pitched Hammond on being the face of their Big 12 debut, while Alabama had slotted him as the heir to Mark Sears. In the end, though, the pull of home — and the vision of turning the Hokies into an ACC title contender — proved irresistible.
For Virginia Tech fans, this signing sends a clear message: the Hokies aren’t just here to compete — they’re here to make noise. With Hammond now officially signed, sealed, and destined for Cassell Coliseum, the ACC just got a whole lot more interesting.
