The Transfer Portal is open, and there is a lot of work that Virginia Tech men's basketball coach Mike Young has to do in terms of putting together a roster for the 2026-27 season. So far, coming back are Amani Hansberry and Tyler Johnson, while a handful of players from last year are hitting the portal.
One need that the Hokies are going to have is in the middle with Christian Gurdak and Antonio Dorn both entering the portal. At least one big is necessary, and here are three early Transfer Portal targets for Young.
Najai Hines: Seton Hall
A rim protector is necessary and big for everyone, as Michigan proved this season on its way to beating UConn. Seton Hall's Najai Hines is a true rim protector and a problem for opponents at both ends of the floor. He averaged 6.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks a game for the Pirates in 19 minutes this past season. At 6-foot-10 and 265 pounds, he is tough to defend on the offensive end. This would be a dream addition for the Hokies.
Somto Cyril: Georgia
Another rim protector is Georgia's Somto Cyril. The 6-foot-11, 260-pound center shot 76% from the field for the Bulldogs, while averaging 9.3 points a game. He grabbed 5.4 rebounds and averaged 2.2 blocks. Cyril was a problem for the SEC in the middle, and pairing him with Hansberry in the front court, along with Johnson, would be tough for opponents and give Young a true center presence.
Magoon Gwath: San Diego State
Young likes some of his inside players to have the ability to step outside and shoot the ball. San Diego State's Magoon Gwath shot 40% from behind the arc the last two seasons, along with protecting the rim on the defensive end. He averaged 8.9 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks a game for the Aztecs. His athletic ability is off the charts for the 7-foot-0 Texas native.