Just In: VCU hoops picks up commitment from in-state, 3-star 2025 F/C Ahead of Other Elite Programs

Silas Barksdale, a 6-foot-8, 225-pound forward/center from Woodside High and part of the Class of 2025, announced his commitment to VCU basketball on Thursday.

Barksdale, known for his versatility and strong rebounding skills, is a three-star recruit ranked as the No. 20 center nationally in his class. He chose VCU over offers from Butler and Miami.

The announcement was made during a livestream on 247Sports. His list of offers also included Virginia Tech, Richmond, Tennessee, Seton Hall, Iowa, and Maryland.

“I’ll be playing basketball for the next three to four years at VCU,” Barksdale said, revealing a black and gold Rams shirt while surrounded by his family.

“The coaching staff was amazing; from the moment I arrived, they made me feel like I was already on the team. The coaches reminded me of my own, as they had a strong bond. I felt I could trust and believe in them. Coach (Ryan) Odom is a fantastic coach who showed me that I’ll be able to play my own style and just enjoy the game.”

Barksdale, a native of the 757 area and a product of Boo Williams AAU, mentioned that Odom, who had been recruiting him since his time at Utah State, was the main reason for his choice. Rams assistant Darius Theus also played a crucial role in bringing Barksdale on board.

“Since around March of last year, Odom has shown me love and made me feel like part of the family,” Barksdale told 247Sports. “I felt this was where I needed to be to improve.”

“(Theus) genuinely showed interest in getting to know me as a person and understanding my life. Other schools were great too, but I’m really focused on loyalty and family, and I felt that connection with him.”

Barksdale characterized himself as a versatile big man, with rebounding as his standout skill.

Ranked the No. 7 player in Virginia for the Class of 2025 by On3, he is also at ease dribbling the ball on the perimeter and mentioned that the Rams coaching staff would give him the freedom to shoot from outside when he has the opportunity.

“Their offense really revolves around the big man, which was a major reason for my decision,” Barksdale stated. “I’ve been a key player on previous teams, so I know how to contribute to winning.”

He mentioned that one of his main objectives at VCU will be to win an Atlantic 10 title. Scouting reports from 247Sports highlight his ability as a forward who can effectively play both inside and outside, a skill set that will align well with Odom’s dynamic offense.

Barksdale also possesses a soft touch around the basket and strong decision-making skills, suggesting that the Rams should leverage him in half-court plays with plenty of dribble handoffs and short rolls.

“It’s significant because he’s a genuine high-major big man, an elite rebounder, and can thrive in a modern offense,” said 247Sports director of scouting Adam Finkelstein.