After receiving word from the Virginia Tech staff that he had an official scholarship offer, Brandon Barden paid a visit to Blacksburg along with his parents for a second look at the Tech campus. On Friday, June 1st, the Lincoln High School (Lincolnton, GA) standout made his verbal commitment to head coach Frank Beamer.

“It was my favorite in the country. I wanted to go there over anybody,” Barden said of Virginia Tech. “I went up there over spring break and talked to the coaches. I talked to one of the coaches again the other day and they said they were going to offer me, so I went up there with my family. I decided that’s where I wanted to go. I told coach Beamer that I’m a Hokie.”

As is the case with many recruits, comfort level played a major part in Barden’s decision. He also was a fan of the Tech program before he ever made a visit to Blacksburg.

“You see Virginia Tech on TV and then I’m not a real big Georgia fan even though I’m from Georgia,” Barden said. “I liked the school. When I went up there and saw how country it was, it reminded me of my town. I felt like I fit in good there. And I like the football team, too. I’ve followed them.”

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