West Virginia University (WVU) basketball has long been a source of pride for the Mountain State, uniting fans with a passion for the Mountaineers’ gritty, hard-nosed style of play. As the 2025-26 season approaches, WVU basketball is undergoing a transformative period marked by a new head coach, a completely rebuilt roster, and renewed optimism.
This article dives into the latest developments surrounding WVU basketball, addressing fan questions, exploring recent changes, and providing an in-depth look at what lies ahead. Drawing from the most current information available, we’ll cover the team’s coaching transition, roster reconstruction, key players, upcoming games, and the broader context of WVU’s basketball legacy.
The Coaching Transition: Ross Hodge Takes the Helm
The WVU men’s basketball program experienced significant upheaval in early 2025. After a tumultuous 2024-25 season, head coach Darian DeVries, who had led the team to a 17-15 record, departed for Indiana, leaving fans stunned. This followed the team’s exclusion from the NCAA Tournament, marking the first time a unanimous bracketology team missed the tournament in the modern era. The departure prompted Athletic Director Wren Baker to launch a national search for a new head coach, culminating in the hiring of Ross Hodge on April 7, 2025.
Hodge, previously an assistant coach at North Texas, brings a fresh perspective to Morgantown. Known for his recruiting prowess and player development skills, Hodge has expressed admiration for WVU’s basketball tradition, particularly citing the legacy of legendary coach Bob Huggins. During his introductory press conference, Hodge highlighted Huggins’ success with junior college recruits, a strategy he plans to emulate. His hiring has sparked curiosity among fans, with many wondering how his coaching philosophy will shape the Mountaineers.
Who Is Ross Hodge?
Ross Hodge is no stranger to building competitive teams. At North Texas, he contributed to a program that won the NIT in 2023 and consistently produced strong defenses. His coaching style emphasizes toughness, versatility, and a fast-paced offense, qualities that align well with WVU’s blue-collar fanbase.
Hodge’s experience as a junior college coach gives him a unique edge in identifying undervalued talent, a critical skill in the transfer portal era. Fans have been asking, “What can Hodge bring to WVU?” The answer lies in his track record of fostering cohesive teams and his commitment to rebuilding the roster from scratch.
Staff Announcements
Hodge has wasted no time assembling a coaching staff to support his vision. Notable additions include:
Johnny Estelle: Announced on May 12, 2025, Estelle brings nearly 30 years of coaching experience, including 14 years as a head coach. A Waco, Texas native, he previously worked with Hodge at North Texas, strengthening the staff’s chemistry.
Andre Shaw: On May 13, 2025, Shaw joined the staff, adding depth to WVU’s recruiting and player development efforts.
Mike Randle: Named to the coaching staff, Randle’s expertise in strategy and scouting will be crucial.
Sean McClurg: Appointed as Director of Video, Scouting, and Analytics, McClurg enhances the team’s data-driven approach.
Jason Martinez: Hired as strength and conditioning coach, Martinez will focus on preparing players for the physical demands of Big 12 basketball.
These hires reflect Hodge’s emphasis on experience, familiarity, and specialization, addressing fan questions about the support system behind the new regime.
Roster Reconstruction: A Fresh Start
Perhaps the most striking development for WVU basketball is the complete roster turnover for the 2025-26 season. Every player from the 2024-25 squad has either transferred, graduated, or pursued professional opportunities, leaving Hodge with a blank slate. This unprecedented rebuild has sparked debates among fans, with some asking, “Is zero retention a problem?” and others wondering, “How will Hodge build a competitive team?”
Hodge’s approach has been methodical, leveraging the transfer portal to assemble a diverse and talented group. As of May 2025, the roster includes nine confirmed players, with additional commitments expected. The new lineup reflects Hodge’s vision of a versatile, athletic team capable of competing in the rugged Big 12 Conference.
Key Additions to the Roster
Here’s a closer look at the players shaping WVU’s 2025-26 roster, based on the latest updates:
Harlan Obioha (C, Transfer from UNC Wilmington): A 7-foot, 280-pound center, Obioha was Hodge’s first commit. Last season, he averaged 9.2 points and 6 rebounds per game, shooting 63.9% from the field. His size addresses WVU’s need for a dominant presence in the paint.
Honor Huff (G, Transfer from Chattanooga): The nation’s leader in three-point shots made last season, Huff averaged 15.2 points per game and shot 41.6% from beyond the arc. His sharpshooting adds a dynamic scoring threat.
Brenen Lorient (F, Transfer from North Texas): A 6-foot-9 forward, Lorient followed Hodge to WVU. His versatility and familiarity with Hodge’s system make him a cornerstone of the rebuild.
Treysen Eaglestaff (G, Transfer): A skilled guard, Eaglestaff brings playmaking and scoring ability to the backcourt.
Jackson Fields (F, Transfer): Fields adds athleticism and defensive tenacity to the frontcourt.
Jasper Floyd (G, Transfer): Known for his quickness, Floyd will contribute to WVU’s up-tempo style.
Chance Moore (G, Transfer): Moore’s scoring and versatility bolster the guard rotation.
DJ Thomas (F, Transfer): Thomas provides depth and physicality in the forward position.
Morris Ugusuk (G, Transfer): A promising guard, Ugusuk rounds out the backcourt with his defensive skills.
Jayden Forsythe (G, 2025 Recruit): A four-star shooting guard ranked No. 98 in the 2025 class by On3, Forsythe committed to WVU after being released from his Xavier letter of intent. His commitment, announced on May 6, 2025, signals Hodge’s ability to attract top high school talent.
This roster blends experienced transfers with high-upside freshmen, addressing fan concerns about depth and competitiveness. Hodge’s recruiting strategy has focused on players who fit his system, with an emphasis on size, shooting, and defensive versatility.
The Transfer Portal Era
The complete roster overhaul has prompted questions about player retention in modern college basketball. As one fan asked on The Smoking Musket, “What is the minimum amount of retention needed to have a successful program in the transfer portal era?” Experts suggest that while retention provides continuity, programs can thrive with heavy portal usage if the coaching staff excels at integration.
Hodge’s success at North Texas, where he built cohesive teams through transfers, bodes well for WVU. The key will be fostering chemistry among a group of players meeting for the first time in Morgantown.
The 2024-25 Season: A Recap
To understand the current state of WVU basketball, it’s worth revisiting the 2024-25 season under Darian DeVries. The Mountaineers finished with a 17-15 record, showing flashes of brilliance but struggling with consistency. Key moments included:
Upset Win Over Gonzaga: Led by guard Javon Small, WVU secured a signature road victory, boosting their NCAA Tournament hopes.
Late-Season Struggles: Despite a strong start, WVU faltered down the stretch, losing to Colorado (67-60) and narrowly defeating Utah (71-69) in the Big 12 Tournament.
Javon Small’s Emergence: Small, a senior guard, led the team with 18.2 points, 5.5 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game, earning praise for his leadership.
NCAA Tournament Snub: Despite projections, WVU was controversially left out of the NCAA Tournament, a decision that sparked outrage among fans.
The season’s abrupt end, coupled with DeVries’ departure, left fans frustrated but hopeful for a fresh start under Hodge.
Notable Departures
The 2024-25 roster featured several standout players who have since moved on:
Javon Small: The team’s leading scorer, Small exhausted his eligibility and is pursuing professional opportunities.
Jonathan Powell: A freshman guard, Powell averaged 15 points in key games but entered the transfer portal.
Sincere Harris: Known for his defensive prowess, Harris also transferred out.
Joseph Yesufu: A former guard, Yesufu transitioned to a coaching role elsewhere.
These departures underscore the challenges of roster continuity in the transfer portal era, a topic frequently discussed by WVU fans.
A Storied Tradition
WVU basketball has a rich history, with 31 NCAA Tournament appearances, a 1959 Final Four run, and iconic players like Jerry West and Rod Thorn. The program’s passionate fanbase, known for the “Let’s Go Mountaineers” chant and the “WVU First Down” cheer, creates an electric atmosphere at the WVU Coliseum.
Bob Huggins, who coached from 2007 to 2023, elevated WVU to new heights, including a 2010 Final Four appearance. His emphasis on toughness and defense became synonymous with Mountaineer basketball. Hodge has acknowledged Huggins’ influence, signaling a commitment to preserving the program’s hard-nosed identity.
The Mountaineer Mascot
The Mountaineer mascot, adopted in 1890, is a beloved symbol of WVU pride. Selected annually during the final men’s home basketball games, the Mountaineer wears a buckskin suit and carries a rifle, embodying the state’s rugged spirit. The mascot’s presence at games, including the Backyard Brawl, adds to the program’s unique culture.
Challenges and Opportunities in the Big 12
Navigating a Tough Conference: The Big 12 remains one of college basketball’s most competitive conferences, with powerhouses like Kansas, Baylor, and Houston. For WVU to succeed, Hodge must prepare his team for grueling road games and high-level competition. The Charleston Classic, featuring potential matchups against mid-major and power-conference teams, will serve as an early test.
The Transfer Portal’s Impact: The transfer portal, while a challenge for retention, offers opportunities to rebuild quickly. Hodge’s success in landing players like Obioha and Huff demonstrates his portal savvy. However, integrating a new roster requires strong leadership and chemistry-building, areas where Hodge’s staff will play a critical role.
Fan Engagement and Community Support
The Voice of Motown: WVU fans are known for their unwavering support, often traveling to bowl games and tournaments across the country. Outlets like The Voice of Motown and WV Sports Now keep fans informed with daily updates, recruiting news, and analysis. Social media, particularly the @WVUhoops Twitter account, has been active in sharing staff announcements, roster updates, and ticket information, fostering excitement for the upcoming season.
The Backyard Brawl’s Significance: The Backyard Brawl against Pitt is more than a game—it’s a cultural event. The November 13, 2025, matchup at the WVU Coliseum will draw a raucous crowd, with fans eager to see Hodge’s team compete in this historic rivalry. The game’s announcement generated significant buzz on social media, reflecting its importance to the fanbase.
FAQs
Who Is the New Head Coach, and What Is His Background?
As discussed, Ross Hodge is the new head coach, bringing experience from North Texas and a focus on recruiting and player development. Fans are optimistic about his ability to rebuild the program, with some comparing his potential impact to that of Bob Huggins in his early years.
What Does the 2025-26 Roster Look Like?
The roster, detailed above, features a mix of transfers and freshmen, with standout additions like Harlan Obioha, Honor Huff, and Jayden Forsythe. Fans are particularly excited about Huff’s three-point shooting and Obioha’s size.
Will WVU Make the NCAA Tournament in 2026?
Predicting the 2025-26 season is challenging given the new roster and coaching staff. However, WVU’s participation in the 2025 Charleston Classic, as reported by CBS Sports’ Jon Rothstein, provides an early opportunity to compete against quality opponents. Success will depend on how quickly the team gels, but Hodge’s track record suggests a competitive squad.
When Is the Backyard Brawl?
The 192nd edition of the Backyard Brawl against Pitt is scheduled for November 13, 2025, at the WVU Coliseum. This rivalry game, announced on May 8, 2025, is a highlight of the non-conference schedule and a must-watch for fans.
How Can Fans Get Season Tickets?
Season tickets and renewals for the 2025-26 season are available, as announced by the WVU hoops Twitter account on May 1, 2025. Fans can purchase new tickets or renew existing ones through the official WVU athletics website.
In Summary
WVU basketball is at a crossroads, with Ross Hodge leading a new era defined by a rebuilt roster and a renewed sense of purpose. The 2025-26 season promises to be a fascinating journey, as fans watch a diverse group of transfers and freshmen come together under Hodge’s guidance.
From the Backyard Brawl to the Charleston Classic, the Mountaineers have opportunities to make a statement. With a passionate fan base and a storied tradition, WVU basketball remains a cornerstone of West Virginia’s identity. As the season approaches, one thing is clear: in Morgantown, the cry of “Let’s Go Mountaineers” will echo louder than ever.
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