The VCU men’s basketball program announced on May 1 several updates to its roster for the upcoming 2026-27 season, including the addition of six newcomers and the return of seven players.
The update is significant as it reflects both departures and arrivals that will shape the team’s performance in the coming year. The Rams will see three starters return while two have left, with a total of seven returning players and seven lost from last year’s squad.
Among the new additions are transfers Blake Harper from Creighton, Torey Alston from Middle Tennessee State, and Nyle Ralph-Beyer from Sacred Heart. Harper averaged 7.7 points per game at Creighton last season after earning MEAC Player of the Year honors at Howard. Head Coach Phil Martelli Jr. said, “Blake is a versatile lefty wing. He has proven to be a high-level scorer while also showing his ability to facilitate.” Alston contributed an average of 13.1 points and 7.9 rebounds per game at Middle Tennessee State, with Martelli stating, “Torey is a dynamic forward with a tremendous motor. He has a rapidly developing skill set to go along with a tenacity and nose for the ball.” Ralph-Beyer brings strong shooting skills after averaging over four made three-pointers per game in each of his past two seasons; Martelli said, “Nyle is an elite shooter with a strong desire to develop his all-around game. He has deep range along with a quick, effortless release.”
Three freshmen join as well: Sammy Jackson (Roman Catholic High School), Collin Ross (SPIRE Academy), and Stefan Plisnic (IMG Academy/KK Dynamic Belgrade). Each received praise from Martelli for their skills and potential contributions: “Sammy is a tall guard with a strong feel for the game… His game has developed as a scorer while maintaining his incredible passing abilities.” On Ross: “Collin is an athletic, hard playing forward… natural shot blocking abilities to go along with a developing offensive skill set that allow him to play inside or outside.” On Plisnic: “Stefan is a skilled perimeter big guy… allowing him to take advantage of any type of defender he sees.”
Returning players include Brandon Jennings (Atlantic 10 All-Defensive Team), Nyk Lewis (Atlantic 10 Rookie of the Year), Ahmad Nowell, Michael Belle, Jordan Tillery, Tyrell Ward, and Lazar Djokovic (First Team All-Atlantic 10). Departures include Jadrian Tracey and Barry Evans due to graduation; Terrence Hill Jr., Obi Okafor, Jordann Dumont, Christian Fermin, and Keyshawn Mitchell entered the transfer portal.
Looking ahead to next season, VCU’s blend of experienced returners alongside incoming talent sets up new opportunities as well as challenges for team chemistry.
