WVU Athletic Director Wren Baker’s Search for New Basketball Coach: McCollum Emerges as Top Choice, Calhoun as Backup…

WVU Athletic Director Wren Baker’s Search for New Basketball Coach: McCollum Emerges as Top Choice, Calhoun as Backup…

 

West Virginia University (WVU) Athletic Director Wren Baker has reportedly identified his top candidate for the position of head basketball coach, as the university embarks on a search to fill a pivotal role in its athletics department. Sources close to the process indicate that Baker has made a strong push for Will McCollum, a highly regarded figure in college basketball circles, as his primary choice to lead the Mountaineers’ men’s basketball team.

 

McCollum, who has earned a reputation for his successful tenure at several notable programs, is seen as the ideal fit for a program that has aspirations of competing at the highest level. His coaching pedigree, combined with his ability to recruit top talent and develop players, has made him one of the most sought-after candidates in the current coaching landscape. If hired, McCollum would be tasked with restoring WVU to its former glory and returning the Mountaineers to the upper echelon of college basketball.

 

Baker, who took over as WVU’s athletic director in 2023, is known for his meticulous approach to athletics administration. His decision to prioritize McCollum underscores the athletic director’s commitment to building a sustainable and competitive basketball program. McCollum’s experience and track record of success appear to align with the vision that Baker has for WVU’s athletic future.

 

While McCollum is Baker’s preferred choice, sources also indicate that the athletic director has identified a secondary option in the form of former UConn head coach Jim Calhoun. Although Calhoun has been retired from coaching for several years, his legacy as a three-time NCAA champion and his ability to build successful programs remain undeniable. Calhoun’s reputation as a winner and his experience at the highest levels of the sport make him a compelling option should McCollum be unavailable.

 

Calhoun, now in his 80s, has expressed some interest in returning to coaching in recent months, and Baker’s backup plan signals a willingness to consider a seasoned veteran who could offer immediate credibility and leadership. However, sources suggest that Calhoun would be a more short-term solution, with McCollum being seen as a long-term investment in the future of the program.

 

The search comes on the heels of a tumultuous few seasons for the Mountaineers’ basketball program, with high expectations often falling short of results. In particular, WVU’s recent struggles in the Big 12 Conference and an underwhelming postseason record have led to increased scrutiny of the team’s direction. Baker’s decision to make a move now reflects his desire to restore the program to national prominence and revitalize the fanbase.

 

The timeline for hiring a new coach remains unclear, but sources indicate that Baker is moving swiftly, hoping to secure a decision soon. The Mountaineers’ next head coach will be tasked with navigating a competitive conference, rebuilding the program’s identity, and forging a path back to NCAA Tournament contention.

 

While McCollum stands as the clear frontrunner, Baker’s backup plan with Calhoun offers a glimpse into his strategic thinking. Whether McCollum or Calhoun ultimately takes the reins, WVU is poised to make a significant investment in the future of its men’s basketball program, with hopes of returning to prominence on the national stage. As the search continues, fans and stakeholders await further developments, eager to see who will be tasked with leading the Mountaineers to success once again.