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North Carolina Central football coach Trei Oliver talked about a memorable situation he experienced during his time patrolling a college football sideline.
Oliver said last season he discovered a Viriginia Tech Hokies assistant football coach who tried to recruit one of his star players from the sidelines.
The Eagles coach suggested that the assistant’s alleged, unauthorized recruitment in the game were part of an effort to convince a race back to enter the transfer portal.
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Main coach Trei Oliver of North Carolina Central Eagles against Jackson State Tigers in the second half of Cricket Celebration Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Stadium December 17, 2022 in Atlanta. (Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
“Virginia Tech was actually on my sidelines and recruited our race back,” Oliver told journalists, according to Wral News. “It was pretty bold. I couldn’t believe it.”
While Oliver stopped naming the player, he noticed the running back, he eventually referred to Virginia.
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When he runs back J’Mari Taylor, who earned first-team all-meac capabilities during his prominent period at NCCU, is listed on UVA’s list.
The NCCU coach also suggested that he was aware of the assistant coach’s motives at the time.
“I knew what it was,” Oliver said.
Virginia Tech Hokies’ Orange Effect “Helmet before a game against Ohio State Buckeyes at Lane Stadium 7 September 2015 in Blacksburg, VA. (Michael Shroyer/Getty Images)
Shortly after Oliver raised the accusations, Virginia Tech released a statement that it was not previously aware of the question but was ready to start a survey of the claims.
Lane Stadium before a game between Virginia Tech Hokies and West Virginia Mountaineers 22 September 2022 in Blacksburg, VA. (Ryan Hunt/Getty Images)
“This is the first time the question has been brought to our attention and no concern has been shared with us through any formal channel,” the team said. “Virginia Tech takes all NCAA rules seriously and is obliged to implement our program with integrity. We are reviewing the case internally and will tackle any findings correctly.”
Virginia Tech closes the regular season in 2025 with a visit to Charlottesville 29 November. Oliver will be the Cavaliers fan that day when he is rooting for his former player. He even predicted a resounding UVA victory.
“Thank God he went to UVA,” said Oliver, “and Uva will beat smoke out of them other people.”
