Tre Mitchell Finds Redemption With Best Virginia in 2025 TBT Opening Round
Charleston, WV — July 18, 2025
Tre Mitchell made a statement Friday night at the Charleston Coliseum — not just for himself, but for the entire Best Virginia roster. In his debut with the WVU alumni team, Mitchell poured in 21 points and grabbed 9 rebounds, leading Best Virginia to a 78-70 victory in the opening round of The Basketball Tournament (TBT).
It was more than just a win. For Mitchell, it was redemption.
Just a year ago, the 6-foot-9 forward was sidelined with injuries and inconsistency during his final college season. His departure from West Virginia University was clouded by questions about his role, his conditioning, and his future in basketball. On Friday, he answered them all — emphatically.
“Tonight was personal,” Mitchell said postgame. “There’s been a lot of noise the last couple years, but I’ve kept my head down, stayed in the gym, and waited for my moment. This team gave me a chance to show who I am.”
And show it he did.
Mitchell was dominant from the opening tip. He scored 11 of Best Virginia’s first 18 points, exploiting mismatches in the post and flashing his improved outside shot. His energy sparked a 12-0 run that broke open a tightly contested game midway through the second quarter. He finished the game shooting 8-of-13 from the field, including 3-of-4 from beyond the arc.
The crowd, filled with Mountaineer faithful, roared each time Mitchell scored — a far cry from the whispers that followed his college exit.
“Tre looked like a man on a mission,” said Best Virginia head coach James Long. “He’s put in the work, and tonight was just the start. The moment wasn’t too big for him. He embraced it.”
Mitchell wasn’t alone. Former WVU standout Juwan Staten added 14 points and 6 assists, while Nathan Adrian pulled down 10 rebounds and anchored the defense. But it was Mitchell who stole the spotlight, and rightfully so.
Best Virginia now advances to face the winner of the Herd That vs. Ram Nation matchup in the second round. With TBT’s $1 million winner-take-all prize looming, every game carries weight — but for Mitchell, this tournament already feels like a turning point.
“This team believes in me,” Mitchell said. “To wear West Virginia across my chest again, to do it in front of these fans — it’s a full-circle moment. I’m grateful, and I’m just getting started.”
TBT has long served as a proving ground for overlooked pros and second chances. For Tre Mitchell, it might be the launchpad he’s been waiting for.
As Best Virginia continues its march through the tournament, one thing is clear — Mitchell is no longer looking for a second chance. He’s taking it.
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