Last spring, Virginia Tech men’s basketball coach Mike Young was searching for a point guard for the 2024-25 season. After Sean Pedulla entered the transfer portal and committed to Ole Miss, the Hokies were left with Brandon Rechsteiner and Temple transfer Hysier Miller as the only ballhandlers for the season.
In early May, Young secured a commitment from in-state Class of 2024 point guard Ben Hammond, who had de-committed from the University of Rhode Island before choosing Virginia Tech. Following the dismissal of Miller in October and with another point guard lost, Hammond stepped up and delivered an impressive first season for the Hokies.
Although Rechsteiner began the season as the starting point guard, Hammond took over the role after New Year’s and continued to improve with every game. On Thursday, the Fairfax native made a decision about his future in Blacksburg.
Virginia Tech freshman point guard Ben Hammond announces he’s returning for 2025-
Nowadays, it seems like anyone can jump ship at any time, access the transfer portal, and find a new home for the upcoming season thanks to the transfer portal. For Young and his staff, Hammond’s announcement on Thursday that he will return to Virginia Tech for the 2025–2026 season is fantastic.
This season, Hammond averaged 5.6 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in 19.5 minutes per game, but his impact extended far beyond his statistics. His court vision was sharp, and his ability to penetrate the defense to set up teammates was especially apparent in January when he drove to the basket and dished a perfect pass to Mylyjael Poteat, who converted a three-point play in the closing seconds to secure a win over Miami.
As the season progressed, Hammond’s defense and outside shooting, particularly from behind the 3-point line, improved. He posted a career-high 21 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists, along with some key defensive plays, in an overtime victory over Syracuse last month. This is significant news for Virginia Tech as Hammond has the potential to become a standout player for the Hokies. With Rechsteiner entering the transfer portal, it was crucial for Hammond to return, and now it’s confirmed that he will.
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