West Virginia University men’s basketball coach Ross Hodge has announced the hiring of Johnny Estelle as an assistant coach. Estelle, a native of Waco, Texas, has nearly 30 years of coaching experience, including 14 years as a head coach and the last two seasons as an assistant coach at North Texas…

West Virginia University men’s basketball coach Ross Hodge has announced the hiring of Johnny Estelle as an assistant coach. Estelle, a native of Waco, Texas, has nearly 30 years of coaching experience, including 14 years as a head coach and the last two seasons as an assistant coach at North Texas…

West Virginia University men’s basketball coach Ross Hodge has officially announced the hiring of veteran coach Johnny Estelle as an assistant coach, bringing nearly three decades of coaching experience to the Mountaineers’ bench. Estelle, a Waco, Texas native, arrives in Morgantown following two successful seasons as an assistant at the University of North Texas, where he played a key role in one of the most consistent mid-major programs in the country.

Estelle’s addition marks a significant move for Coach Hodge, who is assembling a staff rooted in experience, player development, and strong recruiting ties. Known for his energy, leadership, and deep ties to Texas basketball, Estelle brings a wealth of knowledge that is expected to have an immediate impact on West Virginia’s program.

“Johnny is a proven leader and a passionate teacher of the game,” said Hodge in a statement. “He’s a great communicator who connects with players, and his background as both a head coach and assistant at different levels gives him a unique perspective. We’re thrilled to have him on board.”

Estelle’s coaching résumé is extensive. Before joining North Texas, he spent eight seasons as the head coach at Texas A&M University-Kingsville, where he transformed the program into a perennial contender in the Lone Star Conference. Under his leadership, the Javelinas achieved multiple 20-win seasons and reached the NCAA Division II Tournament, including a Sweet 16 appearance in 2020. Estelle earned Lone Star Conference Coach of the Year honors during his tenure and developed a reputation for building tough, defensively sound teams.

Prior to TAMUK, Estelle coached at Navarro College, serving as both an assistant and later head coach. His time at Navarro was highlighted by several winning seasons and player development success, with numerous student-athletes transferring to NCAA Division I programs. His long-standing presence in Texas basketball circles has made him a respected figure in recruiting and talent evaluation.

At North Texas, Estelle reunited with Hodge—then the Mean Green’s head coach—and helped the program maintain its elite defensive identity. The team continued to thrive in Conference USA and later the American Athletic Conference, regularly contending for postseason play.

Estelle now takes the next step in his career at the Power Five level with West Virginia. His diverse coaching background and ties to Texas, a hotbed of high school basketball talent, are expected to bolster the Mountaineers’ recruiting efforts. His experience managing programs and mentoring young athletes will also be instrumental in Hodge’s transition as he builds a new era of West Virginia basketball.

“I’m honored to join such a storied program and work alongside Coach Hodge,” Estelle said. “West Virginia has a proud tradition, and I’m excited to contribute to the culture, development, and future success of this team.”

With the hiring of Estelle, West Virginia continues to solidify a staff that blends experience, regional recruiting strength, and a focus on building a sustainable, competitive foundation in the Big 12 Conference.