Mark Kellogg faces significant reload for WVU’s women’s basketball team next year
As the 2024-2025 college basketball season approaches, Mark Kellogg, head coach of West Virginia University’s (WVU) women’s basketball team, faces a crucial task of reloading his roster in order to keep the team competitive in the highly competitive Big 12 Conference. After an up-and-down season last year, Kellogg and his staff are tasked with replacing key contributors, while maintaining the program’s high expectations.
Offseason Changes: A New Look for the Mountaineers
The Mountaineers have undergone significant changes since the end of the last season, with multiple players leaving the program either through graduation, transfer, or other reasons. While departures are inevitable in college athletics, the loss of experienced players can pose a real challenge for a team trying to stay at the top of the conference.
One of the most notable departures is star guard Jayla Hemingway, who was a key offensive and defensive presence for the Mountaineers. Hemingway’s leadership both on and off the court will be sorely missed, but her departure leaves the door open for a new face to step up and fill her shoes. Additionally, senior forward Kari Lee, who has been a reliable player throughout her career, is also moving on. Losing such experienced players means that Kellogg will need to ensure the team adapts to the changing landscape quickly.
Recruitment and Transfers: Reloading for the Future
In response to these losses, Kellogg has focused on revamping the roster through strategic recruiting and the transfer portal. WVU has made several key acquisitions, which should help fill the gaps left by the departing players. Among the incoming recruits is standout freshman forward, Tasha Green, who brings impressive scoring and rebounding abilities. Green’s arrival offers a potential boost in the frontcourt, a position where WVU was slightly thinner last season.
Additionally, the Mountaineers’ success in the transfer portal has been noteworthy. Kellogg has added experienced players who bring much-needed depth and maturity to the squad. Among these new transfers are guards Jordan Harris from Auburn and Michelle Turner from Texas A&M. Both players are expected to contribute immediately, with Harris providing a scoring spark and Turner bringing leadership and experience from her time in the SEC. Their familiarity with high-level competition in major conferences should help smooth the transition for the Mountaineers as they reload their roster for the upcoming season.
Emphasizing Team Chemistry and Development
Beyond new players, Kellogg is also focused on continuing to develop the core players who remain on the roster. Players like sophomore guard Madison Smith and junior forward Ally Smith will be asked to take on more prominent roles next season. Both have shown flashes of brilliance in their first years with the team, but next season will be a true test of their development as leaders and consistent performers.
Kellogg’s coaching philosophy has always been centered on team chemistry, defensive tenacity, and a balanced offensive attack. With a mix of fresh talent and returning players, his challenge will be to integrate these pieces into a cohesive unit. The emphasis will likely be on creating a defensive-first mentality while using a balanced offensive system that gives the Mountaineers multiple scoring options. However, how well the team gels in the offseason and pre-season workouts will determine much of the success in the coming year.
The Road Ahead: Big 12 Challenges
WVU’s journey through the Big 12 next season will not be easy. The conference remains one of the toughest in women’s basketball, with powerhouse programs such as Baylor, Texas, and Iowa State consistently competing at the highest level. However, Kellogg has proven to be a capable leader, and his ability to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of college basketball will be crucial in navigating these challenges.
In conclusion, Mark Kellogg is faced with a significant reload for the upcoming season. By combining strategic recruiting, wise use of the transfer portal, and development of returning players, he hopes to have the Mountaineers poised for success in a competitive conference. The road ahead may be filled with obstacles, but with a mix of fresh talent and strong leadership, WVU’s women’s basketball team remains a team to watch in the 2024-2025 season.
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