HBCU Recruit Flips from Virginia Tech to Southern University
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Posted By: Will Moss on January 29, 2026 HBCU Recruiting Scores a Major Coup In a move that has electrified the HBCU sports community, Isaiah Pina, a highly touted tight end recruit from South Lake High School in Groveland, Florida, has flipped his commitment from Virginia Tech to Southern University. This late-cycle addition is a significant win for the Jaguars and new head coach Marshall Faulk, who is working to reestablish Southern as a recruiting powerhouse within the HBCU landscape. Pina, a 6-foot-6, 225-pound Class of 2026 prospect, had originally pledged to Virginia Tech back in October 2025. However, on January 23, 2026, he officially decommitted from the Hokies and committed to Southern University on the same day. Key Takeaway: This recruiting victory for Southern University demonstrates the growing appeal of HBCU programs among top-tier high school prospects, who are increasingly recognizing the unique opportunities and support systems that these institutions can offer.
Pina's profile is particularly intriguing, as he is relatively new to organized football, with the 2025 season marking his first year of playing at the high school level. Despite this, he has already made a significant impact, recording 13 catches for 171 yards (over 21 yards per catch) and 5 touchdowns in just 8 games. What makes Pina's commitment to Southern even more exciting is his diverse athletic background. In addition to his standout football skills, he is also a skilled basketball player and has experience in track and field, competing in jumps and relays. This multi-sport experience and natural athleticism make Pina a tantalizing prospect for the Jaguars, who will look to develop his raw talent into a dominant force in the passing game. "This is the kind of win it hopes to normalize with new head coach Marshall Faulk. Faulk's recruiting coordinator is Ben Miles, son of former LSU head coach Les Miles. It's the kind of addition that fits the modern recruiting blueprint: length, upside, and a background that suggests more growth is coming once football becomes his full-time focus." HBCUConnect Perspective: This recruiting victory for Southern University is a significant moment for the HBCU sports community. As more and more top-tier high school prospects like Isaiah Pina recognize the unique opportunities and support systems that HBCU programs can offer, it represents a shifting landscape in college football recruiting. Programs like Southern, with the guidance of experienced coaches like Marshall Faulk, are poised to continue making waves on the national recruiting scene, further elevating the profile of HBCU athletics and showcasing the immense talent and potential within these institutions. Originally reported by HBCU Gameday. If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Will Moss
Founder & CEO, HBCU CONNECT, LLC Hampton University class of 1995 Member Since June 1999 |
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