West Virginia basketball transfer portal targets: This is a collection of players who have either been contacted or have ties to Hodge…

West Virginia basketball transfer portal targets: This is a collection of players who have either been contacted or have ties to Hodge…

As the NCAA transfer portal continues to be a hotbed for roster reshuffling, West Virginia basketball fans are closely monitoring the Mountaineers’ efforts to add key players for the 2025 season. One notable name guiding the team’s recruiting efforts is head coach Bob Huggins, who has a long track record of success with both high school recruits and transfer players. With a reputation for finding hidden gems in the portal, Huggins and his coaching staff are targeting several players who could make an immediate impact for West Virginia.

 

### A New Chapter for West Virginia’s Basketball Program

 

The transfer portal has become an essential part of modern college basketball, as more players seek opportunities to find the right fit after their initial commitments. West Virginia, under the leadership of Coach Huggins, has been active in this process, reaching out to a wide array of talent. Among the most intriguing aspects of this year’s recruitment process is the role of players with direct ties to the Mountaineers, particularly those who have connections to key figures like All-Big 12 guard, Sean Hodge.

 

Hodge, who has become one of the faces of West Virginia basketball, has proven himself as a leader on the court and has developed strong relationships with several players across the country. These ties could play a critical role in helping the Mountaineers land some of their top transfer targets. Below are a few players who have either been contacted by West Virginia or have ties to Hodge’s network, making them prime candidates to join the program.

 

### Key Transfer Targets

 

1. Isaiah Adams (University of Central Florida)

A standout at UCF, Isaiah Adams has been one of the top players available in the transfer portal. Known for his scoring ability and versatility, Adams is a 6’6″ forward who can play both the wing and in the post. Adams has reportedly been in contact with West Virginia’s coaching staff, and sources suggest that Hodge, who has a relationship with Adams, could help convince the talented forward to make the move to Morgantown. Adams would bring an immediate scoring threat to the Mountaineers’ lineup, adding much-needed depth and experience.

 

2. Jaden Ivey (Purdue University)

Though there has been no official offer from West Virginia, the Mountaineers have expressed interest in Jaden Ivey, a highly sought-after guard from Purdue. Ivey’s potential to be an NBA-level talent has made him one of the most coveted players in the portal, and it’s rumored that his ties with Hodge could give West Virginia a competitive advantage. Ivey’s explosive athleticism and playmaking ability could provide the Mountaineers with a dynamic presence in the backcourt, which would complement the leadership and scoring abilities of Hodge.

 

3. Tyrese Hunter (University of Texas)

Another guard linked to West Virginia is Tyrese Hunter from Texas. Hunter has displayed remarkable talent during his time with the Longhorns, known for his quickness, ball-handling, and defensive tenacity. Hunter’s connection to Hodge dates back to their time together in the AAU circuit, and this connection could play a pivotal role in Hunter’s decision-making process. A player like Hunter would provide an immediate defensive boost while allowing Hodge to play off the ball more often in West Virginia’s offensive system.

 

4. Trey Phipps (University of Oklahoma)

A point guard out of Oklahoma, Trey Phipps has been a standout in the Big 12 conference, and West Virginia is reportedly among the schools in pursuit of him. Phipps’ ability to run the offense and his impressive court vision could complement the Mountaineers’ style of play. With the program’s focus on fast-paced basketball, Phipps would add another dimension to West Virginia’s backcourt alongside Hodge. His familiarity with the Big 12 and experience in high-pressure situations would make him a seamless fit.

 

5. Taylen Collins (University of Alabama)

Taylen Collins, a promising forward from Alabama, is another player linked to West Virginia. Known for his rebounding and defensive presence, Collins would bolster the Mountaineers’ interior depth. His ties to Hodge through shared connections in the Southeastern Conference could give West Virginia the edge in securing his services. Collins’ defensive abilities and physicality would provide a much-needed presence in the paint for West Virginia’s frontcourt.

 

### The Importance of Hodge’s Influence

 

As the Mountaineers look to strengthen their roster, having a player like Hodge who is well-connected across the college basketball landscape could prove invaluable. With ties to some of the top transfer portal targets, Hodge’s role in recruitment could be a game-changer for West Virginia. As the transfer portal process unfolds, West Virginia fans will be eagerly watching to see which players decide to join the Mountaineers and help the program return to its competitive form in the Big 12.

 

As of now, West Virginia’s staff continues to be active in contacting transfer players, hoping to build a squad capable of competing at the highest level next season. With Hodge’s influence and the addition of key players from the portal, the Mountaineers’ future looks promising.