Best Virginia, a team of WVU basketball alumni, has advanced to the semifinals of The Basketball Tournament (TBT) after defeating Shell Shock, a team of Maryland alumni, with a score of 74-61. This victory marks Best Virginia’s first-ever appearance in the TBT semifinals and secures their 4-0 record at the Charleston Coliseum

Best Virginia, a team of WVU basketball alumni, has advanced to the semifinals of The Basketball Tournament (TBT) after defeating Shell Shock, a team of Maryland alumni, with a score of 74-61. This victory marks Best Virginia’s first-ever appearance in the TBT semifinals and secures their 4-0 record at the Charleston Coliseum

 

 

Best Virginia, a team made up of former West Virginia University basketball players, has reached a historic milestone in The Basketball Tournament (TBT). With a convincing 74–61 win over Shell Shock—a squad composed of University of Maryland alumni—Best Virginia has advanced to the semifinals of the single-elimination tournament for the first time in team history.

The victory, earned at the Charleston Coliseum in front of an enthusiastic home crowd, extended Best Virginia’s record to a perfect 4–0 in the venue during this year’s tournament. The team has clearly benefited from the familiarity of playing on their home court and the passionate support of WVU fans, who have turned out in large numbers for each game.

Best Virginia’s path to the semifinals has been marked by grit, teamwork, and a strong defensive identity. Against Shell Shock, they set the tone early with aggressive defense and efficient ball movement. Former Mountaineer guard Juwan Staten led the charge with a balanced performance, while veterans like Kevin Jones and John Flowers provided stability and experience on both ends of the floor.

Shell Shock, known for their three-point shooting and fast-paced style, struggled to find rhythm against Best Virginia’s relentless defensive pressure. Despite a few runs in the second half, Shell Shock couldn’t overcome a double-digit deficit that Best Virginia built midway through the game. Clutch baskets and key defensive stops in the final minutes sealed the victory for the WVU alumni.

For Best Virginia, the win carries special meaning. Since the team’s TBT debut, they’ve consistently made deep runs but had never broken through to the semifinals—until now. The 2025 run marks a turning point for the team, which has matured both in chemistry and strategy. The roster, built around core Mountaineer alumni, has also been bolstered by smart additions in recent years, bringing balance and depth to the squad.

“This win means everything,” said coach and former WVU star James Long. “These guys have been working hard year after year to break through. To do it in front of our fans in Charleston makes it even more special.”

With the semifinals looming, Best Virginia now prepares for its toughest test yet. The next round will feature elite competition from across the country, with the final $1 million winner-take-all prize just two wins away. The team remains focused, confident, and driven by a sense of unfinished business.

“We know it only gets harder from here,” said Staten after the game. “But we’re not satisfied. We came here to win the whole thing.”

Best Virginia will travel to Philadelphia for the semifinal matchup, bringing with them the momentum of an undefeated run and the hopes of WVU fans nationwide. With strong leadership, a unified locker room, and a defense-first mentality, Best Virginia is poised to continue its historic run in TBT 2025.