College sports never really stand still. The Transfer Portal keeps shaking up team rosters every season. Virginia Tech’s women’s basketball team, guided by coach Megan Duffy, has seen both the excitement of keeping key players and the sting of losing them.
This article looks at the Hokies’ recent roster changes, especially the additions of Alyssa Latham and Lauren Hurst from the University of Tennessee. We’ll also touch on why Hurst felt Virginia Tech was the right move for her.
Virginia Tech Faces Key Departures
After a year of solid retention, coach Megan Duffy ran into a tough offseason. The Hokies lost several players through the Transfer Portal, most notably Carys Baker and Mckenzie Nelson.
Baker chose Louisville, and Nelson headed to Clemson. Both stayed in the ACC. Their exits left some holes in the lineup, and Duffy now has to rebuild and find the right replacements.
Impact of Losing Baker and Nelson
Baker and Nelson played important roles on both ends of the court. Losing them doesn’t just change the stats—it shakes up the team’s chemistry and leadership, too.
Now, the Hokies need to blend in new talent and stay competitive in a tough conference. That’s easier said than done, but it’s the challenge ahead.
Strategic Additions from the Transfer Portal
Coach Duffy didn’t waste time filling the gaps. She turned to the Transfer Portal and brought in fresh faces for the 2026-27 roster.
Alyssa Latham and Lauren Hurst, both from Tennessee, joined the Hokies. Their arrival brings new energy and some much-needed depth on both offense and defense.
Alyssa Latham: A Versatile Forward
Alyssa Latham stands out for her versatility as a forward. She can play several positions, which gives the Hokies more options on the floor.
Plus, her experience in the SEC could give Virginia Tech a bit of an edge as she settles into the ACC.
Lauren Hurst: A Guard with Potential
Lauren Hurst, a guard out of Cleveland, Tennessee, originally committed to Tennessee as a member of the Class of 2025. In her freshman season, she averaged 2.3 points and 1.7 rebounds in about 10 minutes per game over 24 games.
Sure, those numbers aren’t flashy, but there’s definitely room for growth. With more responsibility at Virginia Tech, Hurst could really step up her game.
Why Virginia Tech Was an Easy Choice for Hurst
Hurst’s move to Virginia Tech came down to a few key things. “I have a lot of connections with all the coaches from different schools, and the girls here have made it an easy choice to come,” she said.
Relationships matter in college sports. For Hurst, knowing and trusting the coaching staff, plus feeling welcomed by her future teammates, made the decision simple.
Connections with Coaches
These days, connections with coaches can make all the difference. Players often follow coaches they trust, looking for programs where they feel supported.
We see this across sports—college football included. For Hurst, her bond with the Virginia Tech staff helped tip the scales.
Team Chemistry and Support
Another big piece for Hurst was the team’s atmosphere. The Hokies’ players created a welcoming, supportive vibe that made the transition less daunting.
That sense of community will probably help Hurst settle in and grow as she joins the team.
Expectations for Hurst at Virginia Tech
Hurst is set to take on a bigger role with the Hokies. Coach Duffy’s system seems like a good fit for her skills, and there’s a real chance for her to shine.
She brings shooting, post-up ability, and some defensive length—things Virginia Tech can definitely use.
Increased Playing Time and Contributions
With more minutes on the court, Hurst should have a chance to boost her stats. The experience she picked up at Tennessee, paired with new opportunities at Virginia Tech, could help her reach another level.
Fans might see her become a key contributor as she gets comfortable in her new role.
Fitting into Duffy’s System
Duffy likes to play to her roster’s strengths, and Hurst seems to fit right in. Her versatility matches what Duffy wants from her players.
As Hurst gets used to her new surroundings, she could end up being a big part of the Hokies’ future success.
Looking Ahead
Lauren Hurst and Alyssa Latham are joining Virginia Tech women’s basketball. This really feels like the start of a new chapter for the Hokies.
Baker and Nelson are gone now, and that’s tough. Still, the Hokies bring in fresh talent and seem ready to face whatever comes next.
The team is gearing up for the new season. They’re focusing on chemistry and figuring out how to fit everyone together, hoping to make some noise in the ACC.
Want more updates or inside info on the Hokies? Check out Fighting Gobbler.
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