Virginia Basketball: Elijah Gertrude commits to Cavaliers, Tony Bennett

Jersey City (N.J.) Hudson Catholic four-star recruit Elijah Gertrude tells On3 he has committed to Virginia.

Gertrude, a 6-foot-3, 180-pound combo guard, ultimately chose the Cavaliers over Kansas, Seton Hall, St. John’s, and Rutgers. He also received offers from Syracuse, Pittsburgh, Iona, Saint Peter’s, St. Bonaventure, and others.

The talented guard is Virginia’s second commitment in the 2023 class, joining four-star big man Blake Buchanan.

Elijah Gertrude ranks as the No. 92 overall prospect in the 2023 class, according to the On3 Consensus, the average ranking from all four major recruiting media companies. This summer, Gertrude averaged 11.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game for City Rocks (NY) on the EYBL Circuit. He also shot 55 percent from the field and 43 percent from three.

Gertrude discusses his commitment to Virginia

“UVA is not just a school, it’s more like a family,” Gertrude said to On3. “Having the chance to be able to play with and for a group of guys like everyone at UVA is a blessing. Coach (Tony) Bennett is an amazing coach that works to develop his players and that’s something I want to be a part of.”

What kind of player is Virginia getting in Elijah Gertrude?

“You are getting a player that is going to leave it all out there on the floor,” he says. “When it comes to playing the game of basketball, I don’t only play for myself. I play for my teammates and my family, and now UVA is a part of the family.”

Gertrude has a message for the UVA fanbase.

“I’m ready to work! I can’t wait to put the world on notice!”