When Megan Duffy was hired as the new head coach for Virginia Tech’s women’s basketball team, she made an immediate impact by securing an early commitment from Katie Sears, a top 100 prospect in the Class of 2025. Sears, who chose the Hokies over more than two dozen offers, is a player that fans in Blacksburg are eager to see on the court.

Sears, a standout at Watauga High School in Boone, North Carolina, has recently been honored as the North Carolina Gatorade Player of the Year. In addition to this prestigious accolade, she was also named the 2024-25 North Carolina MaxPreps High School Girls Basketball Player of the Year, further solidifying her status as one of the nation’s top recruits.

Sears, who earned a four-star ranking from 247Sports last spring, continues to rack up accolades ahead of her arrival at Virginia Tech. It’s no surprise that she has collected yet another honor after an outstanding senior season. During her final year at Watauga High School, Sears averaged an impressive 27.2 points, 13 rebounds, and 9.3 assists per game, showcasing her all-around game and making her one of the most exciting recruits in the Class of 2025.

Sears’ senior season was nothing short of spectacular, as she nearly averaged a triple-double, recording 13 in just 28 games. Two of her performances were truly jaw-dropping. In a double-overtime loss to South Caldwell, a 93-91 thriller in January, Sears put up an incredible 50 points, 16 rebounds, and 11 assists. She also had another standout game with 43 points, 21 rebounds, and 15 assists—numbers that look more like something you’d see in a video game than on a high school court.

The 5-foot-9 guard finished her high school career with 2,613 points, setting the stage for her next chapter in Blacksburg. Sears is joining a highly talented recruiting class under head coach Megan Duffy, who is working to build a strong team. With the WBIT beginning on Thursday night, Duffy will be focused on shaping her roster, hoping for a deep postseason run.

Regardless of how the transfer portal shakes out, expect Sears to make an immediate impact as a freshman for Virginia Tech.