JUST IN: West Virginia University’s women’s basketball team recently saw several changes to its roster with five players entering the transfer portal. Among the players who entered the portal was Zya Nugent, a graduate transfer with one year of eligibility remaining…
Morgantown, WV – In a significant shift for the West Virginia University women’s basketball program, five players have entered the transfer portal, marking a pivotal moment in the team’s off-season. The departures include a mix of underclassmen and experienced players, with one notable figure being graduate transfer Zya Nugent, who still has one year of eligibility remaining.
The news comes as the Mountaineers continue to prepare for the 2025-2026 season, where expectations will likely change due to these roster changes. While the reasons behind the players’ decisions to enter the portal have not been disclosed, such moves are becoming increasingly common in college athletics, as student-athletes seek opportunities that align more closely with their playing styles or personal goals.
Zya Nugent’s Departure
One of the most notable names to enter the transfer portal is Zya Nugent, who joined WVU as a graduate transfer ahead of the 2024-2025 season. Nugent, a seasoned player with substantial experience at the collegiate level, was expected to provide leadership and stability to the Mountaineers’ backcourt. Having played significant minutes during her career, her presence was seen as a key asset for WVU as they aimed to compete in the Big 12 Conference.
Nugent’s departure leaves a significant gap in the Mountaineers’ lineup, as her veteran presence and playmaking abilities were pivotal to the team’s success. With one more year of eligibility remaining, the question arises whether she will transfer to another program for her final season or pursue professional opportunities. Her exit is one of the most high-profile roster changes for the program this year.
The Impact of the Portal
The five players entering the transfer portal are not alone in this decision, as college basketball continues to evolve in the era of the NCAA Transfer Portal. For WVU, the departures mark a period of uncertainty. While the transfer portal opens the door for the addition of new talent, it also means losing established players who have contributed to the team’s identity.
West Virginia University head coach, \[Name of Head Coach], has yet to provide specific comments on the departures but has emphasized the importance of building a roster that not only meets the team’s needs but also gives players the opportunity to grow and reach their full potential.
A New Chapter for the Mountaineers
The Mountaineers now face the challenge of regrouping and reshaping their roster for the upcoming season. The coaching staff is likely to turn its focus to recruiting and identifying new talent, both through the transfer portal and high school prospects, to fill the void left by Nugent and the other departing players.
While this change may disrupt team dynamics temporarily, the Mountaineers have a strong foundation of returning players who could step up in the absence of the departing athletes. With a mix of young talent and experienced players still on the roster, the team will look to continue competing at a high level in the competitive Big 12 Conference.
As the 2025-2026 season approaches, fans and analysts alike will be closely watching how the roster changes play out and whether WVU can maintain its place among the upper tier of college basketball programs.
Looking Ahead
With the transfer portal in full swing and an uncertain roster ahead, it will be interesting to see how the Mountaineers adapt to these challenges. For the departing players, new opportunities await, and for the program, a chance to rebuild and possibly come back stronger. The future of WVU women’s basketball remains a story to watch in the coming months.
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