Hokie ClubBLACKSBURG – Virginia Tech men’s basketball forward Tobi Lawal will return to Blacksburg for the 2025-26 season after going through the NBA Draft evaluation process, head coach Mike Young announced Tuesday.
Lawal, a 6-foot-8 rising senior, tested the professional waters to gain feedback from NBA personnel and enhance his development as a player. After careful consideration, he has elected to return to the Hokies for his final year of eligibility.
“We’re excited to have Tobi back in the maroon and orange,” Young said. “He approached the draft process the right way — with maturity, determination and an eagerness to grow. The feedback he received will only elevate his game, and we’re thrilled about what’s ahead for him and for our program.”
In his first season in Blacksburg, Lawal started in all 30 games he played and led Tech in points (372), field goals made (128), free throws made (93), rebounds (210), blocks (20) and double-doubles (six). The London, England native scored in double figures 20 times, including going for 20 or more in four games. He averaged 12.4 points and 7.0 rebounds as a junior.
“I’m thankful for the opportunity to explore the draft and learn from the experience,” Lawal said. “It gave me a clear view of the areas I need to keep improving–fine-tuning my all-around game, gaining experience from more game reps and challenging myself to guard the opponent's best player every night. I’m excited to be back at Virginia Tech with my teammates and coaches to keep chasing our goals.”
Lawal’s return strengthens a Virginia Tech roster that currently features four returners and six newcomers.
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