Tobi Lawal Takes the Leap: Virginia Tech Forward Enters NBA Draft with a Mind on Both Futures
The hardwood at Cassell Coliseum was still warm from spring workouts when Tobi Lawal, the high-flying forward known for his electric dunks and shot-blocking tenacity, made his announcement. In a move that stirred both anticipation and uncertainty among Hokies fans, Lawal declared for the 2025 NBA Draft—while keeping his final year of college eligibility intact.
It wasn’t unexpected. The 6’8″ athletic marvel had been climbing up draft boards quietly all season. Averaging 10.7 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game, Lawal had become a cornerstone of Virginia Tech’s frontcourt, a relentless presence in the paint with a motor that rarely stalled. His performance in the ACC tournament—where he notched a 17-point, 14-rebound double-double against Duke—put scouts on high alert. But no one knew for sure if he’d test the waters this soon.
When Lawal walked into the press room in a crisp Hokies warm-up jacket, his face was calm, but his eyes told a deeper story—one of resolve, ambition, and careful calculation.
“I’ve decided to enter my name into the 2025 NBA Draft,” he said. “But I’m doing it while keeping my eligibility. I want to go through this process, get feedback, and come back even stronger—whether that’s at the next level or right here in Blacksburg.”
His words were met with a blend of cheers and anxious nods. For Lawal, this wasn’t just about chasing dreams—it was about understanding the terrain before he sprinted forward. The NCAA allows players to declare for the draft and still return to school, provided they don’t hire an agent or withdraw by the designated date. Lawal’s move was strategic, not sentimental.
Virginia Tech head coach Mike Young stood nearby, his arms folded and a small smile forming. “Tobi’s earned this. He’s matured so much, and this is a chance for him to learn where he stands among the best,” Young said. “We fully support him. If he’s back in maroon and orange next season, we’ll be better for it. If he’s not, someone’s getting a special player.”
Indeed, Lawal’s upside is hard to ignore. A raw but evolving offensive game is paired with elite verticality and defensive instincts. At the NBA Combine—should he receive an invite—he’ll have the opportunity to showcase his lateral quickness, improve his draft stock, and possibly earn second-round or even late first-round consideration.
For now, Lawal’s journey hangs in the balance. Over the next weeks, he’ll travel to workouts, listen to front-office feedback, and weigh his options. The decision to stay or go will define his path, but either way, the leap has already begun.
Back in the gym, he’s still working—polishing his jumper, grinding through drills, and reminding everyone that whether it’s in Blacksburg or under brighter lights, Tobi Lawal is not done rising
