HE RETURNS BACK: Josh Eilert Introduced as WVU’s Interim Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach as He Sets to Return Back, Filling Void Left by Ross Hodge…
Morgantown, WV — In a move that brings familiarity and experience back to the program, Josh Eilert has been officially introduced as the interim assistant men’s basketball coach at West Virginia University (WVU). Eilert’s return marks a significant moment for Mountaineer basketball, as he steps in to help fill the void left by the departure of Ross Hodge.
Eilert, a longtime figure in WVU basketball, brings a deep-rooted understanding of the program’s culture and expectations. Having previously served on staff under Hall of Fame coach Bob Huggins for over a decade, Eilert is no stranger to the rigors and demands of Big 12 basketball. His return is not only a homecoming but a stabilizing presence during a period of transition.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to return to the sidelines with this program,” Eilert said during his introductory press conference. “WVU basketball is part of who I am, and I’m ready to help push this team forward with everything I’ve got.”
His appointment comes at a critical juncture. Following the departure of Ross Hodge—who moved on to take a head coaching role elsewhere—the Mountaineers were left without one of their key assistant strategists. Hodge had been instrumental in recent player development and recruiting efforts, making his exit a challenge the program needed to address swiftly.
WVU athletic director Wren Baker emphasized the importance of continuity in his decision. “Josh knows this program inside and out,” Baker stated. “He’s a leader our players respect, and he has the experience we need right now. This team will benefit from his presence on the bench.”
Eilert’s coaching resume includes player development, scouting, and game planning, along with strong recruiting ties across the Midwest. He previously stepped in as interim head coach during a turbulent 2023 offseason and led the team through summer workouts and early-season preparation. His calm demeanor and team-first mentality earned him the respect of both players and peers.
“I’ve worked with these players before, and I know their strengths,” Eilert added. “Our goal is to build chemistry, improve daily, and compete at the highest level.”
With Eilert returning to a familiar role, WVU aims to maintain its competitive edge in the ever-tough Big 12 Conference. Though his title is interim, there is belief within the program that Eilert’s presence can help provide steady leadership as the Mountaineers aim to reestablish themselves as postseason contenders.
As the offseason progresses, eyes will be on how Eilert meshes with head coach Darian DeVries and the rest of the staff. Still, one thing is clear—Josh Eilert’s return brings a sense of confidence and continuity at a time when WVU needs it most.
And so, as he returns back to Morgantown, the message is simple: Josh Eilert is back, and he’s ready to help write the next chapter of Mountaineer basketball.
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