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North Carolina Central football coach Trei Oliver recently shared a notable incident he encountered while on the sidelines of a college football game.
Oliver recounted how he caught a Virginia Tech Hokies assistant football coach trying to recruit one of his star players during a game last season.
The Eagles coach implied that the assistant’s unauthorized recruiting during the game was aimed at persuading a running back to transfer to another school.
Head coach Trei Oliver of the North Carolina Central Eagles against the Jackson State Tigers during the second half of the Cricket Celebration Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Stadium Dec. 17, 2022, in Atlanta. (Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
“Virginia Tech was actually on my sideline recruiting our running back,” Oliver revealed to reporters, as reported by WRAL News. “That was pretty bold. I couldn’t believe it.”
Although Oliver did not disclose the player’s name, he mentioned that the running back eventually transferred to Virginia.
Running back J’Mari Taylor, who was a first-team All-MEAC honoree during his time at NCCU, is now part of UVA’s roster.
Oliver also hinted that he understood the assistant coach’s intentions at the time.
The Virginia Tech Hokies’ “Orange Effect” helmet before a game against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Lane Stadium Sept. 7, 2015, in Blacksburg, Va. (Michael Shroyer/Getty Images)
Shortly after Oliver raised the allegations, Virginia Tech responded by stating that they were unaware of the issue but were prepared to investigate the claims.
Lane Stadium before a game between the Virginia Tech Hokies and the West Virginia Mountaineers Sept. 22, 2022, in Blacksburg, Va. (Ryan Hunt/Getty Images)
“This is the first time the issue has been brought to our attention, and no concern has previously been shared with us through any formal channel,” the team stated. “Virginia Tech takes all NCAA rules seriously and is committed to conducting our program with integrity. We are reviewing the matter internally and will address any findings appropriately.”
Virginia Tech will conclude the 2025 regular season with a game at Charlottesville on Nov. 29. Oliver will be supporting his former player as he roots for UVA, predicting a decisive victory for the Cavaliers.
“Thank God he went to UVA,” Oliver remarked, “and UVA is going to beat the smoke out of them other folks.”
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