Virginia Tech Basketball confirms the addition of Diarra to the 2020 roster

At the end of March we learned of Cartier Diarra’s intention to transfer to Virginia Tech, but get feedback from the NBA Draft committee. Diarra has since removed his name from NBA Draft consideration and is officially coming to Blacksburg for next season.

Cartier will be a graduate transfer student and have one year of eligibility left. But since he has already graduated he will be able to play immediately. Speaking on the addition of Diarra Head Coach Mike Young stated,

“We couldn’t be more excited that Cartier decided to finish his career a Hokie. He brings immediate experience and depth to our backcourt and boasts tremendous playmaking ability. We have a great amount of familiarity of Cartier as a player and person, with Chester Frazier coaching him at Kansas State. We are looking forward to getting back on the floor when the time allows and are thrilled Cartier will be a part of that.”

Diarra adds a very versatile option to an evolving program. Last season he averaged 13.3 points (which would have made him second on the Hokies roster this past season), 3.8 rebounds (4th at VT), 4.2 assists (2nd) and 1.8 steals (1st), which should put him into a position to challenge for a starting role from day one.

The Hokies have an influx of new faces to replace the exit of Landers Nolley. Diarra brings experience playing in the Big-12, as does fellow graduate transfer Cordell Pemsl, who has verbally committed to Tech. Keve Aluma returns from his year sitting out after transferring from Wofford. Then there is the 2020-21 recruitment class which already has three confirmed talented freshman coming in.

Exactly when college sports return is uncertain, as is how the environment and crowd looks. However, when Virginia Tech basketball returns Mike Young will have a more talented team, with more depth, and more height. We could be in store for an improved second year during Mike Young’s tenure. More experience as he continues to rebuild the program through recruitment classes.

Welcome to Blacksburg Diarra.