As the West Virginia University (WVU) men’s basketball team embarks on the challenging Big 12 Conference season, head coach Ross Hodge is leading his squad with a clear strategy. With a current record of 9-4, the Mountaineers are preparing to face a league that boasts six teams in the AP Top 25, including four in the top ten. The conference also features a number of potential NCAA tournament contenders and high-profile prospects like A.J. Dybantsa from BYU, projected as a top pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.
The Mountaineers showcased their approach in their recent games, most notably in a decisive 86-51 win against Mississippi Valley State. This victory followed a double-overtime loss to Ohio State, and a previous game against Little Rock, where their strategy was evident: a strong focus on defensive play combined with a heavy reliance on three-point shooting.
Game Strategy and Player Development
WVU guard Treysen Eaglestaff emphasized the importance of their shooting strategy, stating, “In our very first scrimmage together, we had a lot of threes. Threes are definitely worth more than twos, and that’s definitely the plan.” Eaglestaff’s performance has been notable, scoring 23 points against the Delta Devils, underscoring the team’s offensive capabilities.
During a preseason scrimmage against Maryland, where several players were injured, Eaglestaff and teammate Honor Huff made a significant impact, combining for impressive shooting statistics. Huff notably connected on 10 of 18 from beyond the arc, scoring 32 points. Such performances contributed to early enthusiasm among fans, who viewed Hodge’s revamped roster as a promising contender.
As the season progresses, WVU faces a daunting schedule, with 15 of their next 18 games against teams ranked in the top 100 of the NCAA’s NET rankings. The uncertainty surrounding their competitiveness in this challenging environment raises questions about their ability to maintain momentum and secure victories.
Challenges Ahead and the Road to Success
In their last three games, the Mountaineers have successfully made a total of 39 three-pointers, a statistic that would impress even former coach John Beilein. Hodge attributes this success to the players becoming more comfortable with their shooting roles and understanding the types of shots that are valuable for the team. “Whether I make it or miss it, this is a good shot for us,” he explained, indicating a focus on shot quality over sheer volume.
The central question remains: can WVU’s defense rise to the occasion against tougher opponents? Eaglestaff expressed confidence in their defensive abilities, stating, “With our defense, I think we’re one of the best teams in the country when our threes are falling.” He noted that their strategy involves making opponents take challenging shots while securing rebounds effectively.
As the Mountaineers prepare for the demanding weeks ahead, the blend of offensive firepower and defensive resilience will be crucial in determining their success in the Big 12. The upcoming games will test both their skill and strategy, as they strive to establish themselves as a formidable force in college basketball.
