In a significant shift for the Virginia Tech men’s basketball program, point guard Brandon Rechsteiner has announced his intention to enter the 2025 college basketball transfer portal, as confirmed by his statement to 247Sports. The 6-foot-1, 190-pound player from Woodstock, Georgia, has become a notable figure in roster changes following the Hokies' disappointing 13-19 season.
Rechsteiner's decision to transfer comes just days after fellow teammates Rodney Brown Jr., Jaydon Young, and Patrick Wessler also entered the portal. This marks a wave of changes as Coach Mike Young addresses the need for a more talented roster for the upcoming seasons.
In his sophomore year, Rechsteiner averaged 7.0 points, 1.0 rebounds, and led the team with 2.8 assists over 22.3 minutes per game. His performances included impactful moments, notably scoring a season-high 19 points in a nail-biting double-overtime ACC Tournament matchup against California. In that game, Rechsteiner hit a crucial 3-pointer with just 26.7 seconds left in regulation, ultimately forcing overtime.
Rechsteiner began his college career as a four-star recruit, lauded for his talent and skills, picking Virginia Tech over other established programs such as Georgia Tech and LSU. Throughout the season, he demonstrated flashes of his potential, contributing significant scoring and playmaking, although he struggled with turnovers, leading the team in that category with 71.
Virginia Tech's head coach, Mike Young, had emphasized the necessity for improvement and roster enhancement following their exit from the ACC Tournament. Two weeks prior, he expressed to the media, “A lot was missing (this year). We’ve got to get more talented, and we’re going to — quick.” His remarks have become increasingly relevant as several players have opted to pursue options outside of the program.
Although Rechsteiner appeared in all 32 games this season, starting 15, he found himself switching roles as the season progressed. Initially stepping in as the starting point guard due to the dismissal of Temple transfer Hysier Miller just before the beginning of the season, Rechsteiner later shared the court with freshman Ben Hammond, who emerged as a strong candidate for the position.
Hammond has remained the only point guard on the roster following Rechsteiner's departure. This has sparked conversations about whether he will remain in Blacksburg as his role within the team grows more definitive.
The Hokies’ roster change has not only been caused by recent transfers but also the graduation and loss of eligibility of key players, which further intensifies the recruiting focus for Coach Young. Returning players for the next season include Tobi Lawal, Tyler Johnson, Ben Hammond, Jaden Schutt, and Ryan Jones Jr., all of whom are expected to adapt to the new team dynamic in light of the changes.
As Rechsteiner prepares to enter the transfer portal on March 24, he will be able to explore new opportunities with other collegiate programs. His experience at Virginia Tech, while marked by highs and lows, will serve as a pivotal learning curve as he seeks to find a better fit in his next chapter. The wave of player transfers could underscore a broader theme seen in college basketball: the constant evolution and reshaping of teams as athletes seek avenues that align more closely with their career goals.
In total, Rechsteiner will carry two years of eligibility remaining, making him an attractive prospect for programs looking to bolster their backcourt. Virginia Tech may face challenges in balancing their current roster and boosting their future prospects. With recruiting and portal activity ramping up, eyes will be on what the Hokies can accomplish in the coming offseason to regain competitiveness in the ACC.
For now, the speculation surrounding Rechsteiner and other player movements continues as fans and analysts alike await the decisions that will shape the future trajectory of Virginia Tech basketball.
