Darius Bivins Narrows Recruitment to Four Schools: VCU, Rutgers, Seton Hall & Texas Tech
Class of 2026 4-star point guard Darius Bivins, one of the most skilled floor generals in the nation, has officially trimmed his list of finalists to Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), Rutgers, Seton Hall, and Texas Tech as he nears his college decision. Ranked as a top-100 national prospect (No. 85) with elite playmaking and ball-handling skills, Bivins’s choice will be one of the most intriguing guard decisions of his class.
The Player Profile
Bivins (6-0, 165) is a crafty, high-IQ point guard from Bishop O’Connell High School in Alexandria, Virginia who stands out for his handle, court vision, and advanced playmaking. Scouts note that, while undersized and not an explosive athlete, his feel for the game and skill overlap make him one of the best true point guards in the 2026 cycle.
How Bivins Fits at Each School
1. VCU: Guard-Driven System & Under-Dog Mentality
At VCU, Bivins would join a program known for its scrappy defense, guard-centric offense, and relentless attack style under Coach Phil Martelli Jr. and staff. VCU’s system historically emphasizes quick decision-making, pressure defense, and up-tempo transition, all areas where Bivins thrives.
Why It Fits:
Immediate ball-handling and playmaking role
Pressing, aggressive defensive fits his quick hands
Ideal for developing leadership in an up-tempo offense
Recruitment Standing: High, personal relationship with staff and early interest.
2. Rutgers: Big Ten Physicality & Playmaking Opportunity
Rutgers Basketball has emerged as a serious contender in Bivins’s recruitment after hosting him on an official visit, where he described the experience as “amazing.” The Scarlet Knights bring a Big Ten stage with physical, structured half-court play — a platform where Bivins could grow into a distributor and floor general against top-tier competition.
Why It Fits:
Big Ten exposure and high-level competition
Structured offense that could refine his decision-making
Official visits show Rutgers’ commitment to him
Recruitment Standing: Strong, excellent visit feedback and repeat recruiting attention.
3. Seton Hall: Guard Freedom & Big East Style
Seton Hall appeals to Bivins for its Big East identity and guard-focused freedom. Conversations with Coach Rasheen Davis and Shaheen Holloway have been influential, with Bivins praising the freedom and playing style offered to guards. The Pirates run a style that often allows guards to create from pick-and-roll and iso looks, ideal for a skillful point guard.
Why It Fits:
Big East competitiveness and guard emphasis
Freedom to create and influence offense
Intense fanbase and high-pressure games
Recruitment Standing: Competitive, strong relationship with staff and appealing offensive fit.
4. Texas Tech: Big 12 Exposure & Guard Development
Texas Tech presents another compelling case, with the Big 12’s tough defensive and competitive environment. Bivins has visited Lubbock and built rapport with Coach Grant McCasland and staff, who have a track record of developing guards capable of impacting games early. The program’s commitment to guard play and playing time could be a deciding factor.
Why It Fits:
Big 12 exposure and defensive rigor
Proven track record of guard development
Competitive league stress tests point guard skills
Recruitment Standing: Very strong, early interest and multiple visits convey high priority.
Recruitment Leaders & Decision Outlook
Bivins has visited Rutgers, Texas Tech, and VCU officially and is continuing to cultivate relationships at each school as he takes his time before deciding. Reports suggest his recruitment is heating up with frequent contact and mutual interest from coaches at all four finalists.
Although there’s no public favorite yet, Rutgers and Texas Tech appear to be among the most active and consistent in recent recruiting engagement, while VCU and Seton Hall’s cultural fits may offer the most enticing roles for immediate playmaking.
The guard has expressed he wants to make the right choice without rushing, but a decision could come sooner rather than later as he continues his Official Visit slate and builds deeper relationships with coaching staffs.
Bottom Line: A High-IQ Guard With Versatile Fits
Wherever Darius Bivins lands, he’s poised to contribute early with his elite ball-handling and floor general instincts. Whether it’s the Big Ten grind, Big East creativity, Big 12 challenge, or Atlantic 10 tempo, each finalist offers a distinct path for his development and college basketball fans will be watching closely as the talented floor general makes his final choice.
Written by Alex Karamanos | December 16, 2025