Full Breakdown
West Virginia Mountaineers Prepare for Upcoming Basketball and Football Seasons
9/4/2025, 2:46:54 PM
WVU Basketball Roster Update for 2025-26 Season
The West Virginia Mountaineers men's basketball team is entering a new phase as they prepare for the 2025-26 season under first-year head coach Ross Hodge. Following the departure of former coach Darian DeVries to Indiana, the roster has undergone significant changes, with all but one returning player, redshirt freshman Abraham Oyeadier, entering the transfer portal. The updated roster features new jersey numbers for the players, including notable additions such as Brenan Lorient (0), Jasper Floyd (1), and Honor Huff (3). Hodge expressed optimism about the team's cohesion and work ethic, stating, “They really support each other... They care about basketball, and they’re excited to go on this journey.” The Mountaineers will kick off their season with an exhibition game against Wheeling University on October 26, followed by their official opener against Mount St. Mary's on November 4.
Neutral Site Games to Engage Fans
In an effort to broaden their fan base, the Mountaineers will play neutral site games in various locations across West Virginia. The men's team is set to face Wake Forest in Charleston, while the women's team will compete against Duke in White Sulphur Springs. Athletics Director Wren Baker emphasized the importance of reaching out to southern West Virginia, where passionate fans often lack access to live games. “Opportunities to get in southern West Virginia is important... These games give the fanbase a chance to see both of the basketball teams compete against a power conference opponent,” Baker noted.
WVU Football's Upcoming Challenge Against Ohio
As the Mountaineers transition into the football season, they are preparing for a critical matchup against the Ohio Bobcats. After a convincing 45-3 victory over Robert Morris in their season opener, the Mountaineers are currently favored by 3.5 points, although oddsmakers indicate a close contest. The ESPN Football Power Index gives WVU a 53.6% chance of winning. Head coach Rich Rodriguez acknowledged the challenges ahead, particularly against a Bobcats team that is expected to field a record crowd. Ohio head coach Brian Smith highlighted the difficulty of facing a diverse WVU offense, stating, “They’re very multiple... There’s a lot they’re going to give you at the line of scrimmage.”
Injury Updates and Depth Chart Insights
The Mountaineers are also monitoring the return of running back Kannon Katzer, who has been recovering from an injury. His potential return could alter the team's depth chart, which currently features Jahiem White as the starting running back. Rodriguez has maintained the same order for the depth chart leading into the Ohio game, indicating a strategic approach to the upcoming challenges. The projected depth chart includes multiple players vying for key positions, reflecting ongoing competition within the team.
Conclusion
As the West Virginia Mountaineers gear up for both basketball and football seasons, the focus remains on building a cohesive team and engaging with their fan base. With significant roster changes in basketball and a challenging football schedule ahead, the Mountaineers aim to establish a strong presence in both sports this year.
