NORFOLK, Va. – Robert Jones and the Norfolk State men's basketball program have added another talented piece to the 2026-27 roster with the signing of transfer forward Brandon Gardner.
A 6-foot-8, 215-pound forward, Gardner arrives in Norfolk after spending the 2025-26 season at Sacramento State and previously attending USC. A former four-star recruit and New York Mr. Basketball honoree, Gardner brings high-level athleticism, size, and versatility to the Spartan frontcourt.
"As a former 4-start Top 100 recruit who has competed at a high level, we expect Brandon to add experience and depth to our forwards," said Jones. "His length and athleticism will allow us to play many different ways defensively."
During the 2025-26 season at Sacramento State, Gardner appeared in 16 games with four starts, averaging 4.1 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.0 block per game while shooting 42.1 percent from the field. He finished the year with 16 blocks in 16 contests and committed just seven turnovers in 250 minutes of action.
Gardner showcased his potential with several standout performances throughout the season. He scored a career-high 19 points against California, shooting 6-of-12 from the floor and 4-of-5 from 3-point range. He opened the season with 11 points, seven rebounds, and two blocks against Dominican (Cal.), grabbed a season-best nine rebounds at California Baptist, and recorded three blocks in games against Presbyterian and San Francisco State. His combination of length, athleticism, rim protection, and perimeter skill set made him one of Sacramento State's most versatile frontcourt players.
Prior to Sacramento State, Gardner spent the 2023-24 season at USC, where he received a medical redshirt after appearing in one game.
One of the most highly regarded prospects in the 2023 recruiting class, Gardner graduated from Christ the King High School in Queens, N.Y. As a senior, he averaged 12.4 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game while earning New York Mr. Basketball honors.
Gardner was ranked as the No. 77 overall prospect nationally by Rivals and earned four-star status from ESPN, On3, and 247Sports. He was rated the No. 2 player in New York by 247Sports and was recognized by recruiting analyst Jamie Shaw as one of the most electric players in the 2023 recruiting class.
With his combination of size, length, athleticism, and defensive presence, Gardner adds another dynamic frontcourt option for the Spartans heading into the 2026-27 season.
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