Four-star power forward Trent MacLean, is requesting to be released from his West Virginia signature after coach Darian Devries left the Mountaineers for Indiana…
Morgantown, W.Va. — April 27, 2025
In the wake of a major coaching change in Morgantown, four-star power forward Trent MacLean has formally requested to be released from his national letter of intent to West Virginia University, sources confirmed Saturday.
MacLean, a 6-foot-9 prospect from Ontario, Canada, signed with the Mountaineers during the early signing period last November. He was considered one of the cornerstones of West Virginia’s 2025 recruiting class and a pivotal piece in the program’s long-term rebuild under then-head coach Darian DeVries.
But that plan was thrown into flux last week when DeVries accepted the head coaching job at Indiana University, replacing Mike Woodson. The move has already had immediate ripple effects on West Virginia’s roster and recruiting class—MacLean being the most notable thus far.
“Trent and his family have requested a release from his NLI with West Virginia,” said a source close to the MacLean family. “He made his commitment based on his belief in Coach DeVries and the vision they had for his development. With that no longer in place, he’s exploring other options.”
As of Sunday, West Virginia has yet to officially grant the release, but such requests are typically honored when coaching changes occur. If released, MacLean would be free to reopen his recruitment and sign elsewhere without penalty.
MacLean, who played his high school ball at Montverde Academy (FL) after transferring from his native Canada, averaged 14.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game this past season. His blend of length, athleticism, and defensive versatility made him one of the top frontcourt prospects in the class of 2025 and a potential early contributor at the collegiate level.
With DeVries now in Bloomington, it remains unclear whether MacLean will consider following him to Indiana. The Hoosiers are still working to finalize their recruiting board and transfer targets, but a reunion remains a possibility.
“I think he’s open to all options right now,” the source added. “He just wants to find the best fit—somewhere that feels right both basketball-wise and personally.”
The uncertainty surrounding West Virginia’s coaching staff and future direction could continue to impact its recruiting efforts. Interim athletic director Steve Uryasz has not announced a timeline for hiring a new head coach, though a national search is reportedly underway.
MacLean is not the only recruit reconsidering his options amid the shake-up. Several current players and commits are expected to weigh their futures in the coming days as the program regroups after DeVries’ sudden departure.
For now, all eyes remain on MacLean’s next move—and how it could further shape the landscape of a chaotic college basketball offseason.
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