Virginia Tech men’s basketball head coach Kenny Brooks recently addressed the departure of standout player Cassidy Rowe, delivering a passionate and candid message about the broader state of college basketball. Brooks’ remarks come amid a wave of transfers and shifting dynamics across the NCAA landscape, reflecting growing concerns among coaches about player movement, recruitment, and the evolving culture of the sport.
Rowe, a key contributor for the Hokies, announced his decision to transfer earlier this offseason, catching many by surprise. Known for his scoring ability, leadership on the court, and strong work ethic, Rowe’s exit leaves a noticeable void in the Virginia Tech roster. When asked about the situation, Brooks acknowledged the difficulty of losing a player of Rowe’s caliber but emphasized his respect for Rowe’s decision.
“Cassidy made the choice he felt was best for his future, and I respect that,” Brooks said. “But it’s a reminder of how much college basketball is changing and the challenges we face in keeping players committed and focused.”
Brooks did not shy away from discussing the broader implications of frequent transfers and the growing influence of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals. He expressed concern about the impact these factors have on team cohesion, player development, and the traditional values of college basketball.
“The landscape has shifted dramatically,” Brooks noted. “Players have more options and opportunities than ever before, which is good in many ways, but it also creates an environment where loyalty and stability are harder to maintain. It’s tough on coaches, it’s tough on programs, and ultimately, it can be tough on the players themselves.”
Brooks highlighted the pressures student-athletes face in balancing academics, athletics, and now the complexities of NIL opportunities, social media scrutiny, and the expectations to perform immediately. He suggested that the current climate sometimes leads to short-term thinking rather than long-term growth.
“Everyone wants immediate results, but development takes time,” he said. “We need to find ways to support players better, to help them understand the bigger picture beyond just the next game or the next deal.”
The coach also addressed the recruitment challenges that
