Brent Pry responds to J'Mari Taylor tampering accusations from North Carolina Central: 'I'm not concerned about it'

Last week, North Carolina Central coach Trei Oliver accused Virginia Tech of tampering with now-Virginia running back J’Mari Taylor last season. Per the report, Oliver said he noticed a Virginia Tech staffer on the sideline before a game last November against Howard. He was allegedly told that the unnamed assistant was on campus to see an NCCU assistant athletic director.

“That was pretty bold,” Oliver said, via CBS. “I couldn’t believe it. A couple coaches tried to calm me down and say, ‘Yeah, Coach, he’s just down here visiting.’ But I knew what it was … Two weeks later, my kid got in the portal. Then they were the first people trying to get in his ear. But like I said, thank God he went to UVA, and UVA is going to beat the smoke out of them other folks.”

Virginia Tech head coach Brent Pry, who is entering his fourth season as the head man in Blacksburg, responded to the accusations. He did so during a media opportunity on Thursday.

Pry shuts down speculation about tampering

“Obviously I was surprised by the comment,” Pry said. “The University vetted it, did their research and I feel confident in the process and where we’re at with things. I’m not concerned about it.”

Taylor played for NC Central from 2020-24 and finished his career at the school No. 10 on the program’s career rushing list with 1,882 yards. Last season, Taylor had 1,146 yards on the ground and was NCCU’s first 1,000-yard rusher since 2005. He also had 15 touchdowns.

“Not anything I’m aware of,” Pry continued when asked about potential disciplinary measures. “I know that our university vets those types of things very seriously and takes them very seriously.”

Virginia Tech issued a statement in response to accusations

Following the accusations, the University released a statement. The comment came from the school and not Pry himself.

“This is the first time the issue has been brought to our attention, and no concern has previously been shared with us through any formal channel,” Virginia Tech said. “Virginia Tech takes all NCAA rules seriously and is committed to conducting our program with integrity. We are reviewing the matter internally and will address any findings appropriately.”

In three seasons as the Hokies’ head coach, Pry boasts an underwhelming 16-21 (10-13) record with just one bowl victory (2023 Military Bowl). He’ll enter the 2025 season on the hot seat and could be in real danger with yet another three-to-four-win campaign. Virginia Tech opens its season on Aug. 30 against South Carolina in the Aflac Kickoff Game.

On3’s Nick Kosko contributed to this report.