Virginia Tech’s women’s basketball program entered a whirlwind June under head coach Megan Duffy, a period marked by a flurry of roster adjustments and recruiting activity. The Hokies said goodbye to forward Mackenzie Nelson and guard Carys Baker, both of whom entered the Transfer Portal, while also welcoming Italian forward Francesca Baldassarre, who brings an 8.9‑point average and a 26 % three‑point shooting clip from Serie A1.
Duffy confirmed that Nelson has committed to Clemson and Baker to Louisville, closing out a chapter that saw the team finish the season with a 2‑0 record in the ACC/SEC Challenge. The upcoming December meeting with Tennessee will not only be a test of depth but also a reunion for two of the program’s recent transfers, Alyssa Patham and Lauren Hurst, who hail from Knoxville.
A Reunion in Blacksburg
The matchup will be staged at Cassell Coliseum and marks the second consecutive year the Hokies have hosted the Challenge, a streak that Duffy hopes to extend. Both Patham and Hurst are expected to bring veteran savvy to a lineup that is still being shaped ahead of the next recruiting class.
Recruiting momentum is building, with four‑star wing Nevaeh Roberson slated to visit Blacksburg on July 31. The prospect has already penciled in trips to Virginia, North Carolina and Florida, signaling a competitive race for her signature as the Class of 2027 takes shape.