Class of 2026 point guard Darius Bivins is starting to zero in on his college decision - and he’s down to four programs that have made a strong impression: Rutgers, Seton Hall, Texas Tech, and VCU.
The 6-foot floor general out of Bishop O’Connell (VA), who also runs with the Washington Warriors on the Adidas AAU circuit, has been steadily rising on recruiting boards. Ranked No. 77 nationally in the 2026 class by 247Sports, Bivins has caught the attention of scouts with his poise, quickness, and ability to control the pace of a game. He’s not just a highlight reel - he’s a true lead guard who understands how to run a team.
And when it comes to picking a school, Bivins isn’t just looking for a flashy name or a big stage. He’s focused on two things: development and relationships. He wants to be somewhere he can grow, both on and off the court, and he’s looking for a coaching staff that genuinely believes in him.
Here’s how he’s sizing up his final four:
Rutgers:
There’s a strong bond forming between Bivins and assistant coach T.J.
Thompson. That relationship has clearly made an impact, and Bivins is looking forward to getting on campus.
Rutgers has been steadily building its basketball profile in recent years, and with a coach he trusts in his corner, the Scarlet Knights are firmly in the mix.
Seton Hall:
Head coach Shaheen Holloway’s reputation for empowering undersized guards resonates with Bivins.
Holloway’s run at Saint Peter’s - including that unforgettable NCAA Tournament upset over Purdue - showcased his ability to maximize gritty, tough-minded backcourt players. That “in the mud” mentality?
Bivins sees himself in that mold, and he respects a coach who embraces it.
Texas Tech:
Bivins speaks highly of the Red Raiders’ focus on player development, and he’s already built strong ties with head coach Grant McCasland and assistant Kellen Buffington.
With Buffington recently watching him in person, the connection there is fresh and active. Bivins appreciates the genuine vibe from the staff - and in a recruitment that’s all about fit and trust, that matters.
VCU:
While Bivins hasn’t gone into detail publicly about VCU in this round of interviews, the Rams have long been a staple in the DMV recruiting scene. Their up-tempo style and history of developing guards make them a natural contender for a player like Bivins, who thrives in transition and isn’t afraid to take control.
Throughout the summer, scouts consistently pointed to Bivins as a name to watch. His court vision, change of pace, and ability to make plays under pressure have made him a standout, even in elite competition. He’s not just a scorer - he’s a connector, the kind of guard who makes everyone around him better.
As the recruiting process heats up, Bivins is taking his time and doing his homework. With four programs still in the hunt and each offering something unique, his decision will likely come down to where he feels the strongest connection - and where he sees the best path to becoming the player he knows he can be.