ROSS HODGE SAID: “It is with great honor and humility that I accept the head men’s basketball coaching position at West Virginia University,”  “I have such respect for the toughness, grit and pride of the people of West Virginia, and my hope is that we can reflect that with how our team competes on the court.”….

ROSS HODGE SAID: “It is with great honor and humility that I accept the head men’s basketball coaching position at West Virginia University,”  “I have such respect for the toughness, grit and pride of the people of West Virginia, and my hope is that we can reflect that with how our team competes on the court.”….

 

Morgantown, WV – In a highly anticipated move, Ross Hodge has been named the new head men’s basketball coach at West Virginia University (WVU). The announcement was made earlier this week, marking the beginning of a new era for the Mountaineers. Hodge, who brings a wealth of experience and a strong reputation for building competitive teams, shared his enthusiasm and gratitude during his introductory press conference.

 

“It is with great honor and humility that I accept the head men’s basketball coaching position at West Virginia University,” Hodge said. “I have such respect for the toughness, grit, and pride of the people of West Virginia, and my hope is that we can reflect that with how our team competes on the court.”

 

Hodge, 42, takes over the reins of the Mountaineers’ program at a pivotal time, following a successful tenure under former head coach Bob Huggins, who retired after 16 seasons with the team. While stepping into big shoes, Hodge is confident that his vision for the program will resonate with both players and fans alike.

 

“My approach to coaching is rooted in discipline, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to excellence,” he explained. “At West Virginia, we’re going to play with a chip on our shoulder. We’re going to be relentless, tough, and leave everything on the floor. The people of this state know about resilience, and that’s exactly what we want to see in our team—resilience through every challenge we face.”

 

Hodge’s coaching journey has been marked by success at various levels, most recently as an assistant coach at North Texas. Under his guidance, the Mean Green reached new heights, including an impressive run in the NCAA tournament. His ability to develop players, foster a strong team culture, and implement a fast-paced, hard-nosed style of play has made him a sought-after figure in the basketball world.

 

West Virginia Athletic Director Wren Baker expressed his excitement about Hodge’s appointment, citing his track record and ability to connect with players.

 

“Ross is a tremendous leader who understands what it takes to succeed at the highest level,” said Baker. “We believe he has the vision, experience, and drive to continue the legacy of excellence that Mountaineer basketball is known for. His passion for the game and his ability to build strong, cohesive teams will resonate with our fans and the community.”

 

Hodge’s appointment signals a fresh start for a program that has historically been known for its tough, defensive-minded play and intense style. His philosophy aligns with the foundational values that have always defined WVU basketball—pride, determination, and grit.

 

The Mountaineers’ fanbase, which is renowned for its support and loyalty, will likely see an even more dynamic and competitive team under Hodge’s guidance. The new coach also emphasized the importance of recruiting top talent while developing homegrown players who understand and embody the essence of West Virginia.

 

“One of my priorities will be to build relationships with the local communities and ensure that we’re giving the best possible opportunities for players in this state to succeed,” Hodge said. “We want to represent West Virginia, and we want players who are not just good basketball players, but good people who understand the values of this state.”

 

As Hodge looks to implement his vision, there will undoubtedly be challenges ahead. However, his confidence, experience, and respect for the culture of West Virginia make him an ideal fit for the Mountaineers’ next chapter.

 

Ross Hodge’s tenure at West Virginia University promises to bring a new energy and determination to the men’s basketball program. Fans and players alike will be eager to see how the team’s competitive spirit unfolds in the coming seasons as the Mountaineers strive for continued success on the court.