FOOTBALL
Former Norfolk State athlete Rayquan Smith, known as the “King of NIL,” revealed on Twitter that he has committed to Virginia State, where he plans to play running back.
The 5-foot-9, 210-pounder from Highland Springs High got his nickname for his skill in negotiating numerous deals for his name, image and likeness, as well as advising other athletes in their pursuits. He was a running back and track and field performer for the Spartans.
Wide receiver picks Hokies
Four-star wide receiver Chanz Wiggins, a rising senior at King George High, committed to Virginia Tech, selecting the Hokies over Maryland and Duke.
The 6-foot-4, 191-pounder was one of Virginia Tech’s top targets for 2024, according to gobblercountry.com’s Bryan D. Manning. He became commitment No. 14 to Virginia Tech’s 2024 class and the first wide receiver. Hokies wide receivers coach Fontel Mines played a key role in his recruitment.
JMU season tickets sell out
James Madison announced that it has sold out of football season tickets with a program-record 8,718 — up from 7,708 last fall, the Dukes’ first FBS season.
COLLEGE BASKETBALL
Dukes will take trip to Italy
The James Madison men’s team will travel to Italy for a 10-day tour that will include three exhibition games and multiple stops throughout the country for team-building and sightseeing.
The Dukes will travel to Milan, Lake Como, Florence and Rome on their trip, which lasts from July 28 to Aug. 6. The stretch includes stops in Bellagio, Pisa and Vatican City and visits to the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Pantheon during their time in Rome.
While in Italy, JMU will play a trio of exhibition games, including matchups against A.S. Stella Azzurra and Virtus Roma.
