The West Virginia University (WVU) men’s basketball team is poised to take on a demanding schedule in the Big 12 Conference, marked by a blend of strategic offensive play and defensive resilience. Under the guidance of head coach Ross Hodge, the Mountaineers (9-4) are preparing for three months of competition featuring six teams ranked in the AP Top 25, including four in the top ten. With the NCAA Tournament looming and high-profile players like A.J. Dybantsa of BYU expected to be top picks in the 2026 NBA Draft, WVU’s approach will be critical to their success.
Strategic Execution on Display
WVU’s game plan has become increasingly clear in recent outings, particularly highlighted by a resounding 86-51 victory against Mississippi Valley State. The team’s strategy revolves around a potent combination of defensive pressure and aggressive three-point shooting. In their last three games, the Mountaineers have successfully connected on a remarkable total of 39 three-pointers, showcasing their offensive capabilities.
Guard Treysen Eaglestaff, who scored 23 points against Mississippi Valley State, emphasized the team’s commitment to their shooting strategy. “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. We’re just going to keep putting the work in,” he stated.
The Mountaineers’ offensive execution was also evident in their challenging matches, including a double-overtime loss to Ohio State. Eaglestaff and fellow players have been encouraged to take bold shots, with the aim of overwhelming opponents and creating opportunities on the inside when defenders are pulled out. Coach Hodge noted that this strategy is about finding the “good shots” that align with their overall game plan.
Challenges Ahead in the Big 12
As the Mountaineers prepare for the next 18 games, they will face a grueling lineup, with 15 of those contests against teams ranked within the top 100 of the NCAA’s NET rankings. This high level of competition raises questions about WVU’s defensive capabilities. Historically, their defense has faced scrutiny, and whether it can hold up against stronger opponents remains a pivotal concern.
“With our defense, I think we’re one of the best teams in the country when our threes are falling,” Eaglestaff added. “It’s really hard to guard. We’re going to make you shoot tough shots and we’re going to rebound.” The balance between offensive firepower and defensive fortitude will be crucial as the Mountaineers navigate the rigors of the Big 12.
Looking back, the preseason scrimmage against Maryland provided a glimpse of the potential this team holds. With standout performances, including Honor Huff‘s impressive 10 of 18 from three-point range, fans became optimistic about the season ahead. As the Mountaineers embark on this critical phase of their season, their ability to maintain momentum and adapt to high-stakes games will determine their journey in the Big 12.
In summary, WVU’s approach relies on a dual strategy of aggressive shooting and solid defense. As they prepare for the challenges ahead, the Mountaineers are focused on execution and improvement, aiming to secure their place in the NCAA Tournament and make a significant impact in the Big 12 Conference.
