In the early signing period, Virginia Tech inked two solid power forward prospects in 6-9, 235-pound Hyman Taylor and 6-7, 215-pound Terrance Vinson. Tech landed yet another solid looking frontcourt prospect yesterday, receiving a verbal commitment from 6-9, 225-pound power forward/center Cheick Diakite (pronounced Check Jah-kah-tay). The Bridgton Academy (North Bridgton, Maine) standout will sign with Virginia Tech this week.

“Yeah, he did commit and he’s going to sign this week,” Bridgton Academy head coach Whit Lesure confirmed.

A native of Mali, Diakite transferred to Bridgton Academy for his senior year. He progressed throughout the season and averaged 10 points, 9 rebounds and 5 blocks per game, helping Bridgton to a 30-6 record including a NEPSAC Championship. Diakite turned it on in the playoffs, scoring 16 points in each of the final three games including a 16 point, 14 rebound and 10 block effort in the semifinals.

Virginia Tech wanted to add more rebounding and defense to its frontcourt and appears to have done just that.

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