West Virginia has wrapped up its search for a new head men’s basketball coach, selecting North Texas’ Ross Hodge to lead the Mountaineers. But how strong of a hire is this for Wren Baker and the program? Here’s how it grades out.
Schuyler Callihan: C+
While it’s unclear who was at the top of Baker’s list, it’s doubtful that Hodge was the first choice he may not have even been in the top three. That said, his résumé isn’t the most exciting and likely won’t generate much enthusiasm among Mountaineer fans.
In his two seasons at North Texas, Hodge struggled against high-level competition, going 0-10 against NCAA Tournament teams and 0-2 against AP Top 25 opponents. Surprisingly, these losses didn’t come against Power Four schools in non-conference play but rather against teams like McNeese, Utah State, High Point, and Memphis. He also suffered a home defeat to a 12-win UTSA squad.
However, Hodge’s defensive system is his biggest asset and played a key role in his hiring. This past season proved that strong defense can win games in the Big 12, even without an elite offense. If Hodge can bring in a couple of reliable scorers to complement his defensive approach, he could make things work.
Is this a slam-dunk hire? No. But is it a disaster? Also no. This hiring is based on potential, and given the tough situation Baker faced with DeVries leaving after just one year, it lands somewhere in the middle. Baker has a strong track record with coaching hires, so there’s reason to believe the Mountaineers will be fine.
Christopher Hall: B
While Hodge wasn’t among the top coaching candidates at the start of this cycle, he was an emerging name and likely would have been in high demand in the near future.
Compared to other rumored candidates, Hodge lacks extensive head coaching experience, but he’s had success in the roles he’s held. His time coaching at the JUCO level, where he had to rebuild his roster yearly, proves his ability to get players to buy into his system one that emphasizes tough, defensive-minded basketball, which aligns well with West Virginia’s style.
Hiring a coach without the strongest credentials always carries some risk, but West Virginia has benefited from similar hires in the past. Aside from Bob Huggins, their last two coaching hires John Beilein and Darian DeVries were relatively under-the-radar picks who ended up finding success.
Baker has repeatedly emphasized his desire for a coach who prioritizes developing high school talent and retaining players, rather than constantly rebuilding through the transfer portal. Hodge appears to fit that vision, aiming to build continuity within the program.
DeVries set the bar high in his one year at WVU, but don’t be surprised if Hodge makes an immediate impact as well. While it may take a season for his system to fully take hold, by year two, the Mountaineers could be hitting their stride.
That said, my personal favorite coaching candidate was Ben McCollum, but he was always expected to return home to Iowa City.
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