Taking over a program in transition, Hodge inherited a roster in need of immediate attention following the departure of former head coach Darian DeVries, who left Morgantown after only one season to take the head coaching job at Indiana. The coaching change prompted a mass exodus of players through the transfer portal, leaving the Mountaineers’ lineup nearly empty.
Among those who departed were key contributors like Jacob Harris, Rodney Tenner, and Jeremiah Hansberry, all of whom entered the portal shortly after Hodge’s arrival. Additionally, rising junior forward Noah Powell, who had shown promise as a stretch four, also opted to explore opportunities elsewhere. These departures left Hodge with the urgent task of rebuilding almost from scratch.
Since then, the first-year coach has wasted no time attacking the transfer portal and evaluating incoming high school talent. One of his first key acquisitions was 7-foot center Harlan Obioha from UNC Wilmington. Obioha brings interior size and defensive presence, having averaged 9.2 points, 6 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game last season. His commitment represents a foundational piece for Hodge’s defensive-minded system.
In addition to size, Hodge has prioritized experience and leadership. The Mountaineers have shown interest in veteran guards from mid-major programs, including Themus Fulks, a Milwaukee standout known for his perimeter defense and court vision. Fulks, who is still weighing his options, would provide much-needed stability in the backcourt should he commit.
Ross Hodge arrives in Morgantown with a reputation as a defensive tactician. During his two seasons at North Texas, he guided the Mean Green to a 46-23 record and was nationally recognized for orchestrating one of the most disciplined defensive units in college basketball. His philosophy centers on toughness, rebounding, and controlling the pace of play—a shift from West Virginia’s previous offensive schemes.
While rebuilding a roster under such tight circumstances presents obvious challenges, Hodge remains optimistic. In recent interviews, he has emphasized the opportunity to reshape the culture and identity of Mountaineer basketball. “It’s about setting a tone,” Hodge said. “We want to be the toughest team on the floor every night.”
Behind the scenes, Hodge and his staff have been aggressively recruiting not only transfers but also junior college players and high school seniors who fit the mold of hard-nosed, defense-first competitors. His goal is to field a balanced team with depth, versatility, and grit—attributes he believes are essential to competing in the rugged Big 12 Conference.
Fan response has been a mix of apprehension and cautious optimism. While some lament the instability brought on by another coaching change, many are intrigued by Hodge’s energy and clear vision for the program. As summer workouts approach, all eyes are on how quickly he can mold his new roster into a cohesive unit.
For now, the Mountaineers remain a team in transition, but with a new leader at the helm and a clear plan taking shape, West Virginia basketball is beginning to turn the page.