UNIQUE MOVE: Mark Kellogg Signs His Daughters to WVU Women’s Basketball on Trial Basis—Drawing Smiles from Fans and Attention from the College Basketball World…

UNIQUE MOVE: Mark Kellogg Signs His Daughters to WVU Women’s Basketball on Trial Basis—Drawing Smiles from Fans and Attention from the College Basketball World…

 

MORGANTOWN, W\.Va. — In a lighthearted and unconventional move, WVU Women’s Basketball Head Coach Mark Kellogg has made headlines by signing his two daughters to the Mountaineer program on a temporary, trial basis—drawing smiles from fans and attention from the college basketball world.

 

The move, described by Kellogg himself as “more fun than formal,” allows his daughters to experience the inner workings of Division I basketball, while also giving them the chance to show off their skills in a competitive environment.

 

“It’s all in good fun,” Kellogg joked. “They’ve grown up around the game, and I figured, why not let them step onto the court, be part of the team atmosphere, and see how they handle it? We’ll call it a free signing—for now.”

 

Both daughters, high school athletes in their own right, have shown promise in youth leagues and summer camps, often training alongside college-level talent. While their presence at WVU isn’t tied to official NCAA eligibility or scholarship status, their inclusion in workouts and practices has become a point of lighthearted buzz among players and staff.

 

“They’ve got game, no question,” said senior guard Madison Smith. “It’s cool to have them around—they bring energy, they work hard, and they’re learning quickly. Coach might just be scouting for the future right at home.”

 

The playful twist has already sparked reactions on social media, where WVU fans and alumni shared clips of the Kellogg girls shooting in practice, jokingly comparing them to future draft prospects. The phrase “Coach is selling them out next!” even trended locally—referencing Kellogg’s own tongue-in-cheek comment that he might “shop them to another team” once they’ve proven their value.

 

“They’ll have to earn their spot like anyone else,” Kellogg laughed. “And hey, if UConn or Stanford come calling—I’ll take offers. But seriously, this is about letting them enjoy the game and be around a culture that builds confidence, teamwork, and fun.”

 

The move also reinforces Kellogg’s commitment to creating a family-first culture at WVU—a key pillar of his coaching philosophy. The program has become known for its strong team chemistry and focus on player development, both on and off the court.

 

While the Kellogg daughters won’t be suiting up in official games this season, their presence is already making an impact behind the scenes. Whether it’s assisting in drills, running the sidelines, or soaking in the team dynamic, their short stint as “free signings” is a reminder of the personal side of college athletics.

 

“Being here has been amazing,” said the elder Kellogg daughter in a brief video shared by WVU Basketball. “We’re learning so much and having fun doing it. It’s something we’ll never forget.”

 

For now, it’s all smiles in Morgantown. And while there may not be any trade deals in the works just yet, the Kellogg sisters are proving they’ve got something special—on and off the hardwood.