wvu basketball schedule - Real Fantasy Sports24

🏀 Section 1: Introduction & Season Context

WVU Mountaineers Basketball: A New Era Dawns in 2024–25

As the leaves turn golden in Morgantown and the West Virginia Mountaineers lace up for another season, there’s a palpable buzz around the WVU Coliseum. The 2024–25 basketball campaign doesn’t just bring another schedule of matchups—it marks the beginning of a new era in WVU basketball. Following a tumultuous 2023–24 season marked by off-court drama and mid-season instability, the Mountaineers have retooled their roster, introduced a new coaching regime, and are ready to make their mark in a reloaded Big 12 Conference.

Looking Back: The End of the Bob Huggins Era

The 2023–24 season was one of the most turbulent in WVU’s modern basketball history. After Bob Huggins—a Hall of Fame coach and beloved figure in Morgantown—resigned amid controversy, the Mountaineers scrambled to stabilize the program. Interim coaching changes, a rapidly changing roster, and injuries derailed the season. WVU finished near the bottom of the Big 12 standings, missing out on the NCAA Tournament and losing ground in recruiting and momentum.

But with challenge comes opportunity—and WVU now steps forward with a clean slate and plenty of optimism.

New Leadership: Darian DeVries at the Helm

Enter Darian DeVries, the new head coach tasked with steering WVU back to national relevance. Hired from Drake University, where he built a consistent mid-major winner and made multiple NCAA appearances, DeVries is known for a modern, fast-paced offensive system and disciplined defense. More importantly, he’s brought a sense of professionalism, stability, and energy that the program desperately needed.

Joining him is a talented staff, including:

Tucker DeVries, his son and 2023–24 MVC Player of the Year
Assistant coaches with deep recruiting ties across the Midwest and Southeast
A strong support staff focused on player development and analytics

Together, this group is committed to rebuilding WVU’s identity: tough, fast, fearless basketball that reflects the passion of its fanbase.

Roster Reload: New Faces, New Energy

The roster has also undergone a transformation. Several key transfers have joined the Mountaineers, including standout guard Javon Small, who brings elite scoring and playmaking. Returning players like Josiah Harris and Noah Farrakhan provide leadership and athleticism, while new recruits are expected to contribute immediately.

This mix of experience, talent, and chemistry gives WVU a fighting chance to surprise many in the Big 12.

The Big 12 Gets Bigger

One of the most significant changes for the 2024–25 season is the evolution of the Big 12 Conference itself. With the arrival of Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado, and Utah, the league now features 16 teams, making it one of the most competitive and geographically diverse conferences in the country.

For WVU, this means more travel, more marquee matchups, and fewer guaranteed wins. The Mountaineers will face:

Traditional Big 12 powers like Kansas, Baylor, and Texas Tech
New rivals in Arizona (a top-10 preseason team) and Colorado (led by Coach Tad Boyle)
Underrated programs like BYU, UCF, and Cincinnati

It’s a gauntlet—but also a golden opportunity to prove themselves.

High Expectations & Hope

While national pundits may overlook WVU this season due to last year’s struggles, the program is quietly building toward something special. The 2024–25 schedule is full of challenges, yes—but it also presents moments where the Mountaineers can pull off statement wins, improve their NET ranking, and make a push for the NCAA Tournament.

Fans should be particularly excited about:

The Backyard Brawl against Pitt
The Battle 4 Atlantis tournament in the Bahamas
High-stakes home games at the WVU Coliseum against Big 12 giants
The team’s modern style of play under DeVries

A Team to Believe In

This season isn’t just about wins and losses—it’s about rebuilding a culture. The players have bought in, the coaching staff is aligned, and the fanbase is ready to turn the page. Whether it’s chasing an NCAA Tournament berth, developing young stars, or simply restoring pride in the WVU name, this year’s journey will be one to follow.

So, grab your blue and gold gear. The Mountaineers are back, and they’ve got something to prove.

🏀 Section 2: Non-Conference Schedule Breakdown

WVU Basketball’s Non-Conference Slate: A Crucial First Test

The 2024–25 non-conference schedule for West Virginia University men’s basketball is more than just a warm-up before the Big 12 gauntlet—it’s a critical test for a rebuilt roster and new coaching staff. Spanning from early November to late December, this portion of the schedule features both winnable home games and high-stakes battles against national powers. These early matchups will help define the team’s identity, chemistry, and postseason potential.

Let’s take a detailed look at each non-conference opponent, analyzing the storyline, strengths of the matchup, and how these games will shape WVU’s season.

📍Exhibition Game – vs. University of Charleston (W.Va.)

Date: October 31, 2024
Location: WVU Coliseum (Morgantown, WV)

West Virginia opens its public slate with a preseason exhibition against the Division II Charleston Golden Eagles. This game, while not impacting the record, serves multiple purposes: finalizing rotations, testing offensive and defensive schemes, and introducing fans to new faces. Expect the Coliseum to be lively as excitement builds.

Coach DeVries may use this game to experiment with lineups, especially in the backcourt, where roles are still being defined.

🏠 Game 1 – vs. Robert Morris

Date: November 6, 2024
Location: WVU Coliseum

The official season opener sees WVU taking on Robert Morris, a program from the Horizon League. Though not a high-profile opponent, Robert Morris is a disciplined team capable of punishing defensive lapses.

This game is a must-win for the Mountaineers and offers an opportunity to showcase the team’s pace and perimeter shooting. Look for Javon Small to assert himself early.

🏠 Game 2 – vs. UMass

Date: November 10, 2024
Location: WVU Coliseum

UMass, under head coach Frank Martin, brings physicality and experience. The Minutemen finished strong last year in the Atlantic 10 and will be WVU’s first real test defensively. Martin-coached teams are known for toughness and rebounding, so WVU’s big men will need to be prepared.

This game could be close, particularly if West Virginia is still building offensive rhythm.

✈️ Game 3 – at Pittsburgh (Backyard Brawl)

Date: November 14, 2024
Location: Petersen Events Center, Pittsburgh, PA

Arguably the most anticipated non-conference game of the year, the Backyard Brawl returns to Pitt this season. These two bitter rivals have a history dating back over a century, and this matchup always brings energy, intensity, and packed stands.

Pitt, led by head coach Jeff Capel, is coming off a strong ACC season and will be favored at home. This will be WVU’s first road game—a major test of mental and physical toughness. A win here would provide a signature early-season moment for Coach DeVries.

🌴 Battle 4 Atlantis (Bahamas Tournament)

Dates: November 27–29, 2024
Location: Paradise Island, Bahamas

This three-day holiday tournament is WVU’s marquee non-conference event, featuring a stacked field:

🌊 Game 1 – vs. Gonzaga (Confirmed)

Gonzaga is a perennial top-25 team with elite offensive execution. WVU will need to play its most complete game—minimizing turnovers, executing in the halfcourt, and rebounding aggressively.

If WVU pulls the upset, they could face…

🏆 Possible Semifinal Opponent – Arizona or Michigan State

Arizona, now a Big 12 rival, is ranked top 10 in preseason polls. Michigan State, under Tom Izzo, plays with defensive intensity and poise. Either would challenge WVU’s guards and frontcourt depth.

🏁 Final Day – TBD (Kansas, Wisconsin, or St. John’s)

WVU could close the tournament against another power-conference opponent, giving them 2–3 potential Quad 1 games before December.

This tournament could define WVU’s at-large resume. Winning one game would be a success; winning two or more could vault them into the top-25 conversation.

🏠 Game 4 – vs. Iona

Date: December 4, 2024
Location: WVU Coliseum

Back home from the Bahamas, the Mountaineers face Iona, a team in transition after Rick Pitino’s departure. Still, Iona plays fast and relies on perimeter shooting—something WVU must defend well after an emotional tournament stretch.

This game should be a win if the Mountaineers avoid fatigue and turnovers.

🛫 Game 5 – Neutral Site vs. Wake Forest

Date: December 9, 2024
Location: Mohegan Sun Arena, Uncasville, CT

This game is part of the Hall of Fame Series, placing WVU against an improving Wake Forest squad from the ACC. Played on a neutral court, this contest gives WVU another opportunity to earn a quality win outside Morgantown.

Wake Forest plays with spacing and tempo, and this game could turn into a shootout. It’s a key game for tournament résumé-building and a litmus test before final Big 12 tune-ups.

🏠 Game 6 – vs. Eastern Kentucky

Date: December 14, 2024
Location: WVU Coliseum

Eastern Kentucky comes from the ASUN Conference and runs a high-pressure defense. This will challenge WVU’s ball-handling and composure. Look for Coach DeVries to emphasize transition defense and ball control in this matchup.

It’s also a chance to get bench players extended minutes if WVU builds a lead.

🏠 Game 7 – vs. Arizona

Date: December 21, 2024
Location: WVU Coliseum

One of the biggest home games on the calendar—Arizona visits Morgantown in a rare non-conference clash, even though they’ll soon become Big 12 rivals.

Arizona, led by Tommy Lloyd, is a national title contender. This game is likely to be nationally televised and could be a sellout crowd. The Coliseum will be electric.

If WVU wins, it will be seen as a major upset—and could dramatically alter the trajectory of their season.

Non-Conference Summary

Opponent	Location	Type	Key Storyline
Charleston (Exh.)	Home	Exhibition	Test run before official opener
Robert Morris	Home	Regular	Tune-up, must-win
UMass	Home	Regular	First real test
Pitt	Away	Rivalry	Backyard Brawl returns to Pitt
Gonzaga	Bahamas	Tournament	Battle 4 Atlantis begins
Arizona/Michigan State	Bahamas	Tournament	Huge potential matchup
Iona	Home	Regular	Bounce-back game post-tournament
Wake Forest	Neutral	Showcase	Resume-builder
Eastern Kentucky	Home	Regular	Guard pressure challenge
Arizona	Home	Regular	Top-10 opponent comes to town

WVU’s non-conference schedule is well-balanced: it offers strong home games, neutral-site tests, and road challenges. If the Mountaineers finish this stretch with 7–3 or better, they’ll be in excellent shape for Big 12 play.

🏀 Section 3: Big 12 Conference Schedule Breakdown

The Big 12 Gauntlet: WVU’s Journey Through the Toughest League in College Basketball

The 2024–25 Big 12 Conference schedule is nothing short of a battlefield. With 16 teams now competing after the additions of Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado, and Utah, the Big 12 has cemented itself as the deepest and most competitive league in college basketball. For West Virginia, it means 18 league games filled with national-title contenders, NBA-ready talent, and few—if any—easy wins.

This section will break down WVU’s full Big 12 slate, including key matchups, home/away breakdowns, rivalry games, and what it all means for their postseason ambitions.

🧭 Big 12 Scheduling Format

With 16 teams in the conference, the Big 12 no longer operates under a full round-robin format. Each team plays:

5 opponents twice (home and away)
8 opponents once (4 home, 4 away)

This rotation allows a total of 18 games and adds complexity and imbalance—teams must take advantage of favorable draws and protect home court to survive.

WVU’s Big 12 Schedule: Full Breakdown

Let’s walk through each matchup, grouped by home/away splits and frequency.

🔁 Home-and-Away Opponents (Play Twice)

These are teams WVU faces both in Morgantown and on the road:

Kansas
BYU
UCF
Cincinnati
Iowa State

These five programs vary in style and competitiveness, but all offer important seeding and résumé value.

🔹 Kansas (Home & Away)

Key Players: Elmarko Jackson, Hunter Dickinson
2023–24 Record: 24–11
Why It Matters: Kansas remains the gold standard of the Big 12. Playing them twice is both a curse and an opportunity. WVU hasn’t beaten KU in Lawrence since 2016. However, a home win at the Coliseum could be season-defining.

🔹 BYU (Home & Away)

2023–24 Record: 23–11 (NCAA Tournament)
Style: High-volume three-point shooting, tough at altitude
BYU split games with WVU last season. Traveling to Provo is brutal, but beating them at home is essential.

🔹 UCF (Home & Away)

Sneaky Tough: UCF’s length and zone defense caused problems last season. WVU must avoid an upset loss in Orlando and defend home court in Morgantown.

🔹 Cincinnati (Home & Away)

Regional Rival: Former Big East foes with passionate fanbases. The Bearcats are improving under Wes Miller and could push for NCAA Tournament status.

🔹 Iowa State (Home & Away)

Elite Defense: T.J. Otzelberger’s Cyclones are a nightmare defensively. WVU’s offense will be tested both in Morgantown and at Hilton Coliseum.

🏠 Home-Only Opponents

These teams visit Morgantown but WVU won’t have to travel:

Texas Tech
Utah
Arizona
TCU

🔹 Texas Tech

Known for physicality and rebounding. WVU has had success against Tech at home in recent years.

🔹 Utah

One of the four new Pac-12 additions. The Utes are in rebuild mode but bring size and smart guard play.

🔹 Arizona

Blockbuster Game: Arizona could be a top-5 team nationally. Having them come to Morgantown is huge for TV, fan excitement, and NCAA NET ranking potential.

🔹 TCU

A gritty team that always plays hard. WVU must avoid a letdown and steal this game to maintain home dominance.

✈️ Away-Only Opponents

These are road games with no return visit to Morgantown:

Oklahoma State
Baylor
Colorado
Arizona State

🔹 Oklahoma State

Always tough in Stillwater. The Cowboys play a slow, grinding style. WVU must dictate pace.

🔹 Baylor

A national powerhouse with elite guards and NBA prospects. Stealing a win in Waco would be monumental, but expectations should be measured.

🔹 Colorado

High altitude and aggressive offense. WVU’s conditioning and depth will be tested here.

🔹 Arizona State

Not as strong as in recent years, but a trap game on the schedule due to travel distance and inconsistency in ASU’s play.

🔥 Key Rivalries & Matchups

WVU vs. Kansas – The Signature Clash

The Mountaineers’ battles with Bill Self’s Kansas squads have become must-watch TV. This year, with two meetings, fans can expect high drama—especially in Morgantown, where WVU often plays KU tough.

Backyard Brawl Vibes – WVU vs. Cincinnati

While not an official rivalry, there’s history between WVU and Cincinnati dating back to Big East days. The crowd energy, familiarity, and intensity make these matchups feel personal.

Arizona’s First Visit to Morgantown

This one could be legendary. Arizona brings a massive national following and top-tier talent. A win here would be a program-defining moment early in Coach DeVries’ tenure.

📊 What It Means for the Season

The Big 12’s strength can be a double-edged sword. WVU could finish with an average record (say, 8–10 or 9–9 in conference) and still have a top-40 NET ranking because of the strength of schedule. Every game matters—particularly at home, where WVU must capitalize on opportunities.

Here’s what WVU needs to do:

Win 6+ home Big 12 games to stay in postseason contention
Steal 2–3 road wins (look at UCF, Cincinnati, or Arizona State as possibilities)
Split vs. Kansas or Arizona to gain a signature win

🏟️ Home Court Advantage: WVU Coliseum

The WVU Coliseum has long been one of the toughest environments in college basketball when packed. With a fresh start and energized fanbase, Coach DeVries is counting on this advantage to tip the scales.

If the Mountaineers can create a hostile environment for visiting Big 12 teams, they’ll give themselves a fighting chance in most home games.

🧮 Big 12 Outlook: The Final Word

Here’s a realistic breakdown of WVU’s 18-game Big 12 schedule:

Type	Games	Target Wins
Home Games	9	6–7
Away Games	9	2–3
Total	18	8–10 (Bubble Team)

Anything better than 9–9 would likely mean WVU is firmly in NCAA Tournament territory. A 7–11 record might still keep them in the NIT or First Four conversation depending on non-conference performance.

🏀 Section 4: Player & Coach Profiles

Who’s Leading the Charge? Spotlight on WVU’s Key Players & Coaches

As West Virginia gears up for the 2024–25 season, one of the most exciting aspects of this retooled roster is its fresh mix of high-upside transfers, returning contributors, and a coaching staff with a proven track record. Under new head coach Darian DeVries, the Mountaineers are embracing a new basketball identity—one that emphasizes speed, shooting, and smart defense.

Let’s take a closer look at the personalities and talents shaping WVU’s revival this season.

👔 Head Coach: Darian DeVries

Previous Role: Head Coach at Drake University
Notable Achievements:

Three NCAA Tournament appearances at Drake
150+ career wins with a 70% winning percentage
Known for developing overlooked talent into all-conference players

Coach DeVries arrives in Morgantown with a clear vision: up-tempo offense, gritty defense, and high-character players. At Drake, his teams were known for strong fundamentals, excellent spacing, and unselfish basketball. He’s not a flashy personality—but a steady, no-nonsense leader who connects deeply with players.

In many ways, he’s exactly what WVU needs after a rocky end to the Bob Huggins era. Expect WVU to play a faster-paced, guard-oriented offense with a more open floor.

🧠 Assistant Coaches to Watch

Tucker DeVries (Coach’s Son) – May play a hybrid role as staff and practice contributor; was the MVC Player of the Year at Drake and could serve as a player development bridge.
Matt Woodley – Defensive strategist with a reputation for in-game adjustments.
Zach Gillion & Tom Ostrom – Recruiters with major-conference experience, helping WVU hit the transfer portal hard.

This is a modern, analytics-aware staff built for player development and in-season improvement.

🔥 Player Spotlight: Javon Small (Guard)

Previous School: Oklahoma State (and ECU before that)
Position: Point Guard
Height/Weight: 6’2″, 185 lbs
Playing Style: Crafty scorer, confident ball-handler, three-level offensive threat

Javon Small may be the most important player on WVU’s roster this year. He brings Big 12 experience, scoring punch, and veteran poise to a team that needs direction. At Oklahoma State, he showed flashes of brilliance, averaging over 15 points per game before an injury slowed him down.

His ability to penetrate defenses, draw fouls, and create for others makes him the perfect lead guard in Coach DeVries’ up-tempo system. If Small stays healthy, he could earn All-Big 12 honors.

🛡️ Returning Core Players

🔹 Josiah Harris (Forward)

Role: Versatile defender and rebounder
Strengths: Energy, switchability, and rebounding toughness
What to Expect: Harris could become a glue guy—doing the little things that win close games.

🔹 Noah Farrakhan (Guard)

Transfer from: Eastern Michigan
Style: Athletic, quick, fearless driver
Farrakhan brings explosive athleticism and shot-making ability, though his decision-making must improve. He’ll likely serve as the spark plug off the bench or a starting combo guard.

📈 Breakout Candidates

🔹 A.J. Storr (Wing – Transfer)

From: Wisconsin
Style: Physical, 3-and-D potential, transition scorer
Storr has an NBA-ready frame and flashed high-level skills at Wisconsin. If he adjusts to DeVries’ style, he could be a breakout two-way contributor.

🔹 RaeQuan Battle (Guard)

From: Montana State
Status: Awaiting eligibility ruling
Battle was a scoring machine in the Big Sky Conference. If cleared to play, he gives WVU another elite shot-maker on the wing.

🧱 Frontcourt Reinforcements

🔹 Jesse Edwards (Center) – Pending Return from Injury

Height: 6’11”
From: Syracuse
If healthy, Edwards is a game-changer with his shot-blocking, rim-running, and rebounding. He missed much of last season, but WVU fans know his impact when he’s at 100%.

🔹 Pat Suemnick (Forward)

A physical presence who does the dirty work, Suemnick adds frontcourt depth and rebounding, particularly if Edwards is limited.

💎 Freshmen & Development Players

While most of the attention is on transfers, DeVries also brought in freshmen and redshirt sophomores who could be future building blocks:

Jahmir McBride (Freshman PG): High IQ, pass-first guard with upside
Brandon Davis (Forward): Rebounding specialist and interior scorer
These young players will develop under a coach known for turning role players into stars.

🧮 How This Roster Fits Together

WVU’s projected 2024–25 rotation features:

Position	Starter	Backup
PG	Javon Small	Jahmir McBride
SG	Noah Farrakhan	RaeQuan Battle (if eligible)
SF	A.J. Storr	Josiah Harris
PF	Josiah Harris	Pat Suemnick
C	Jesse Edwards (if healthy)	Brandon Davis

This group has length, athleticism, and shot-making—but also question marks around chemistry, injury health, and experience playing together.

If DeVries can build cohesion quickly, this is a tournament-caliber roster.

🎯 Coach DeVries’ Vision: Modern, Tough, Together

Coach DeVries is not trying to replicate Bob Huggins’ press defense or hard-nosed post play. Instead, he wants ball movement, pace, spacing, and smart defense. His Drake teams were top 25 in assist-to-turnover ratio and ran elegant offensive sets.

This system suits guards like Small and wings like Storr. The question isn’t talent—it’s how quickly they can gel and execute.

🏀 Section 5: Game-by-Game Schedule Overview

A Closer Look: WVU’s Full 2024–25 Men’s Basketball Schedule, Game by Game

West Virginia’s 2024–25 basketball season isn’t just a collection of games—it’s a journey. With 31 total contests (including exhibitions, non-conference, and Big 12 matchups), each one tells part of the story. From the early tune-ups in Morgantown to heavyweight battles against Kansas, Arizona, and Baylor, every game presents its own challenge—and opportunity.

Here’s a comprehensive, game-by-game preview of the full WVU Mountaineers schedule, offering key insights and predictions along the way.

🎃 October 31 – vs. Charleston (Exhibition)

Prediction: Win
Key Focus: Rotation evaluation, defensive communication
This tune-up gives Coach DeVries a first look at real-time chemistry. Fans will get to see how new faces like Small, Storr, and Harris mesh in a game setting.

🏠 November 6 – vs. Robert Morris

Prediction: Win
Key Focus: Offensive fluidity
WVU should control this game from start to finish. It’s a good opener for setting tone and building confidence.

🏠 November 10 – vs. UMass

Prediction: Close Win
Key Focus: Rebounding, transition defense
UMass plays hard under Frank Martin. WVU’s physicality will be tested, but the home crowd should help the Mountaineers close it out.

🛣️ November 14 – at Pittsburgh (Backyard Brawl)

Prediction: Loss
Key Focus: Poise, hostile environment
Pitt has an experienced, deep roster and the home crowd edge. This rivalry game could go either way, but early-season road chemistry may be shaky.

🌴 November 27 – vs. Gonzaga (Battle 4 Atlantis Game 1)

Prediction: Loss
Key Focus: Turnover control, pace
Gonzaga plays with relentless efficiency. A loss wouldn’t be damaging—WVU needs to stay competitive and avoid foul trouble.

🏀 November 28 – vs. Arizona/Michigan State (Atlantis Semifinal)

Prediction: Competitive Game
Key Focus: Adjustments, bench play
Whether it’s Arizona’s length or MSU’s toughness, WVU will be facing a second powerhouse. This will test the Mountaineers’ stamina and depth.

🏁 November 29 – Atlantis Placement Game (vs. St. John’s, Kansas, or Wisconsin)

Prediction: Win
Key Focus: Finishing strong
Ending the tournament 1–2 or 2–1 would be a success. Look for a bounce-back performance and the emergence of a role player.

🏠 December 4 – vs. Iona

Prediction: Win
Key Focus: Focus, energy
Back home after Bahamas travel, this could be a trap game. But WVU has the talent to dominate if they stay focused.

🏟️ December 9 – vs. Wake Forest (Neutral – Mohegan Sun)

Prediction: Win
Key Focus: Shooting, guard matchup
Wake has a solid backcourt, but WVU’s athleticism should shine in this high-scoring contest. A valuable neutral-site win.

🏠 December 14 – vs. Eastern Kentucky

Prediction: Win
Key Focus: Press break, bench development
EKU uses high-pressure defense, so WVU’s ball security will be tested. Expect starters to rest late if the Mountaineers build a lead.

🏠 December 21 – vs. Arizona

Prediction: Close Loss
Key Focus: Half-court defense, late-game execution
This might be the most exciting non-conference home game in years. Arizona’s talent is elite, but if WVU is clicking, this could be a statement win—or a valuable learning experience.

🎄 Holiday Break

A week off to regroup before Big 12 play begins. Expect practices to focus on conditioning, scouting, and recovery.

🎯 Big 12 Conference Schedule (Starts Late December / Early January)

🏠 vs. BYU

Prediction: Win
Key Focus: Guarding the 3-point line
BYU plays fast and shoots often. WVU must rotate well and control the tempo.

✈️ at Oklahoma State

Prediction: Loss
Key Focus: Handling slow pace, defending without fouling
Stillwater is a tough road environment. WVU will need its veterans to show composure.

🏠 vs. Cincinnati

Prediction: Win
Key Focus: Paint touches, toughness
The Bearcats are gritty, but WVU’s offensive spacing can open up driving lanes. A winnable home battle.

✈️ at Arizona State

Prediction: Win
Key Focus: Focus, fatigue
WVU’s first Big 12 road win opportunity. ASU lacks consistency—if Small and Storr shine, WVU can steal this one.

🏠 vs. Kansas

Prediction: Close Loss
Key Focus: Rebounding, late-game decision-making
The Coliseum will be loud, but Kansas’ experience may prevail. Still, this is one of WVU’s best shots at a top-tier upset.

✈️ at Baylor

Prediction: Loss
Key Focus: Perimeter defense
Baylor has one of the best backcourts in the country. This one could get away from WVU unless they play their best basketball.

🏠 vs. UCF

Prediction: Win
Key Focus: Patience vs. zone
UCF’s length will disrupt rhythm, but WVU should be prepared. The Coliseum helps again.

✈️ at Colorado

Prediction: Loss
Key Focus: Conditioning, rebounding
Altitude, travel, and an efficient Buffaloes squad make this a difficult trip.

🏠 vs. Texas Tech

Prediction: Win
Key Focus: Physicality, composure
Expect a grinder. WVU must win these home toss-up games to stay tournament-relevant.

🏠 vs. Utah

Prediction: Win
Key Focus: Closing out on shooters
The Utes shoot well, but WVU’s athletes should control the pace.

✈️ at Iowa State

Prediction: Loss
Key Focus: Avoiding long scoring droughts
Hilton Coliseum is a tough place to win. If WVU turns the ball over early, the game could spiral.

🏠 vs. TCU

Prediction: Win
Key Focus: Paint scoring, bench depth
TCU plays hard, but this is a favorable matchup at home.

✈️ at BYU

Prediction: Loss
Key Focus: Mental focus
Altitude, travel, and a fired-up BYU crowd may be too much for WVU to overcome.

🏠 vs. Iowa State

Prediction: Win
Key Focus: Revenge game
After a road loss, WVU returns the favor at home in a big resume game.

✈️ at Cincinnati

Prediction: Loss
Key Focus: Toughness
This could be a coin flip, but playing in Cincy is always difficult.

🏠 vs. Arizona

Prediction: Loss
Key Focus: Execution
Arizona’s talent may prove too much again, but expect a close game and major national attention.

🏠 vs. Kansas (Season Finale)

Prediction: Upset Win
Key Focus: Defensive rotations, big-time energy
If WVU’s tournament hopes are on the line, expect a massive Coliseum crowd and an upset-minded Mountaineer squad to end the season with fireworks.

🧮 Season Projection Summary

Segment	Projected Record
Non-Conference	9–2
Big 12 Conference	8–10
Overall Regular Season	17–12 (plus one or two wins in Battle 4 Atlantis placement game or Big 12 tournament)

This record would place WVU firmly on the NCAA Tournament bubble, with potential to move up depending on Big 12 Tournament success.

🏟️ Section 6: Fan Experience, Tickets, and Broadcast Info

Mountaineer Nation: The Heartbeat of WVU Basketball

Few programs in college basketball can match the passion and loyalty of Mountaineer Nation. Whether it’s a Wednesday night tipoff or a marquee showdown with Kansas, fans pack the WVU Coliseum and bring a level of energy that makes Morgantown one of the toughest places to play.

As the 2024–25 season begins a new chapter under Coach Darian DeVries, fan excitement is surging. Here’s everything you need to know about attending games, getting tickets, and watching the action from home.

🎟️ Tickets: How to Be There

Season Tickets
WVU season tickets are the best value for die-hard fans. Season ticket holders receive early access, discounts, and reserved seats for every home game—including blockbuster matchups vs. Kansas, Arizona, and Cincinnati.

Available through: WVUGAME.com
Call the Mountaineer Ticket Office: 1-800-WVU-GAME
Season packages include both non-conference and Big 12 games.

Single-Game Tickets
These go on sale closer to the season start (usually in mid-September). Expect high demand for games like:

Backyard Brawl (if hosted in Morgantown)
Arizona’s visit (Dec 21)
Kansas (late February/March)

Student Tickets
WVU students get free or discounted access with valid student IDs. The student section is known for its intensity and chants—it’s often the loudest part of the Coliseum.

🏟️ The WVU Coliseum Experience

Capacity: Just over 14,000
Atmosphere: Electric, loud, intimidating for opponents
Traditions: The “Let’s Go Mountaineers” chant, gold rush games, and “Take Me Home, Country Roads” after every win

The Coliseum has undergone renovations in recent years, including upgraded seating, better lighting, and new video boards—making it one of the premier venues in the Big 12.

Pro Tip: Arrive early for big games and wear gold to join in the “Gold Rush” effect.

📺 How to Watch from Home

All WVU games will be broadcast on a combination of:

ESPN/ESPN2/ESPNU
Big 12 Now on ESPN+
CBS Sports Network
FOX/FS1 (select Big 12 games)

Games like Kansas and Arizona will likely air on national TV, while non-conference games may stream on ESPN+.

Streaming Tip: A subscription to ESPN+ is recommended to follow the full season, especially early non-conference games and Big 12 Now coverage.

🧭 Section 7: Season Expectations, X-Factors & Final Thoughts

WVU Basketball 2024–25: A Season of Transition, Opportunity, and Promise

As West Virginia prepares to tip off the 2024–25 season, one thing is certain: this year represents a turning point. With a brand-new head coach, a revamped roster, and a restructured Big 12 landscape, the Mountaineers are entering a bold new era. The season ahead offers more than just wins and losses—it’s about laying a foundation for long-term success, restoring identity, and re-energizing a passionate fanbase.

Let’s break down what to expect this season, what could go right (or wrong), and the key factors that will define the outcome.

🎯 Season Goals: What Success Looks Like

For a program like WVU, with its proud basketball tradition, “rebuilding” is never a comfortable word. But this season isn’t necessarily about contending for a Big 12 title—it’s about re-establishing relevance and creating consistency.

Reasonable Goals for 2024–25:

Reach 18–20 wins overall
Finish .500 or better in Big 12 play (8–10 or 9–9)
Compete for an NCAA Tournament bid (bubble or better)
Protect home court, especially against mid-tier opponents
Develop a team identity rooted in effort, pace, and defense

If WVU checks these boxes, it will have exceeded most national expectations for a team in transition.

💣 X-Factors: What Could Swing the Season?

✅ 1. Health of Jesse Edwards

The big man’s return from injury is crucial. If Edwards plays at the level he did before his setback, WVU gets a defensive anchor, rim protector, and veteran leader in the paint. Without him, frontcourt depth becomes a glaring issue.

✅ 2. Javon Small’s Leadership

WVU’s success will largely ride on its point guard. If Small stays healthy and efficient, he can run the offense, create plays, and hit big shots. If he struggles, WVU’s offense could stall—especially against Big 12 defenses.

✅ 3. Three-Point Shooting

Coach DeVries loves floor spacing and ball movement. For his system to click, WVU needs to shoot at least 35% from three as a team. A.J. Storr, RaeQuan Battle (if eligible), and Noah Farrakhan must hit shots consistently.

✅ 4. Team Chemistry

So many new faces can take time to gel. Early success in non-conference play could build trust and momentum, while early struggles could lead to disjointed play. Watch how quickly WVU figures out roles, rotations, and leadership.

🚧 Potential Challenges

Tough Schedule: The Big 12 is brutal. Even talented teams can find themselves with losing streaks.
Depth Concerns: WVU’s roster isn’t deep with proven players. Injuries or foul trouble could expose holes.
Late-Game Execution: New teams often struggle in close games until chemistry builds. WVU must learn how to close.

🏀 Why There’s Room for Optimism

Despite the questions, there are plenty of reasons to believe WVU can surprise people this season:

Coaching Upgrade: DeVries brings a fresh system, modern approach, and player-focused leadership style.
Athletic, Versatile Roster: This is one of the most athletic WVU teams in recent memory—built to compete with elite programs.
Motivated Fanbase: The Coliseum will be rocking. There’s genuine excitement around the new era.

This isn’t a rebuild—it’s a reset. WVU is no longer trying to imitate the past. It’s forging a new identity.

🧨 Final Thoughts: A New Era Begins

The 2024–25 WVU men’s basketball season is about more than just results. It’s a test of patience, potential, and progress. For Coach Darian DeVries, it’s an opportunity to take a proud program and lead it into a modern era—one that values player development, pace, and purpose.

Will there be growing pains? Absolutely. But will there also be upsets, breakout stars, and moments that remind the nation who the Mountaineers are? Without a doubt.

If this team finds its rhythm by February, WVU could be one of the most dangerous “dark horse” squads in March.

So to the fans, students, alumni, and die-hards who bleed gold and blue: buckle up. A new chapter begins—and the climb continues.

📌 Article Summary:

Total Words: ~5,000
Sections Covered:
- Introduction & Overview
- Non-Conference Schedule Analysis
- Big 12 Conference Breakdown
- Player & Coach Profiles
- Game-by-Game Season Outlook
- Fan Experience & Broadcast Info
- Season Expectations & Final Thoughts