Wren Baker Tells it Like it is, WVU has More Recent Success Than Indiana…

Wren Baker Tells it Like it is, WVU has More Recent Success Than Indiana…

 

In a bold statement that has garnered attention, West Virginia University (WVU) athletic director Wren Baker set the record straight regarding the university’s athletic success compared to other programs, particularly focusing on the recent performance of WVU vs. Indiana University.

 

Baker, who took over as the AD at WVU in 2022, wasted no time in addressing a point of discussion that has been lingering in college sports circles—just how successful have the Mountaineers been in comparison to some of their more traditionally storied rivals?

 

While Indiana University has long been regarded as a powerhouse in basketball, particularly with its rich history of NCAA tournament appearances and multiple national championships, Baker’s comments shine a light on a more recent trend. He pointed out that, in terms of recent success, WVU has outpaced Indiana in a number of key areas, particularly when it comes to overall athletic achievements in the past decade.

 

“I don’t think people realize how successful we’ve been,” Baker said in an interview earlier this week. “Yes, Indiana has a historical legacy, but if we look at the last 10 years, our teams have had more postseason appearances, better overall records, and have been consistently competitive in the Big 12. We’re not just playing on a past reputation.”

 

Indeed, Baker’s assertion is backed by cold, hard data. While Indiana’s basketball program has had a storied run, its football program has often struggled, leading to a mixed reputation across both major sports. In contrast, WVU, a member of the Big 12 Conference, has been able to maintain a level of success in both football and basketball, despite not having the same national acclaim or historical pedigree.

 

In football, WVU has had consistent bowl game appearances in the last decade, including a prominent Sugar Bowl victory in 2012. The Mountaineers have been competitive in the Big 12 Conference and have regularly been in the conversation for higher-tier bowls. Indiana, on the other hand, has not had nearly the same level of success, despite some flashes of potential under Coach Tom Allen.

 

Basketball is another area where Baker’s statement rings true. While Indiana’s basketball program may be more historically recognized, recent years have seen WVU establish itself as a force in the NCAA tournament. Under head coach Bob Huggins, the Mountaineers have reached the tournament several times, including a Sweet 16 appearance in 2018. In contrast, Indiana has faced a series of struggles to return to its former glory, with the Hoosiers consistently failing to make deep runs in March Madness.

 

Moreover, Baker stressed that success should not be measured purely by championships but by sustained competitiveness and overall athletic achievements across the board. “It’s not just about one or two sports,” he emphasized. “It’s about the overall health of our program. West Virginia is competing in almost every sport at a high level, and that’s something we take great pride in.”

 

WVU has also had impressive showings in other sports, such as soccer, baseball, and track and field, proving that success is not confined to the spotlight of basketball and football. On the other hand, Indiana’s athletic programs, while strong in some areas, have not had the same consistency across multiple sports in recent years.

 

As Wren Baker continues to steer the Mountaineer athletic department, his confidence in the program’s trajectory and success in recent years stands as a reminder that success in college athletics is a moving target. With continued investment in facilities, recruitment, and coaching, WVU is positioning itself as a competitive force not just in football or basketball, but across all sports.

 

“Let’s not forget,” Baker said with a smile, “West Virginia is here to stay, and we’ve got the results to prove it.”