Ross Hodge has been named the new head coach for men’s basketball at West Virginia University (WVU). Hodge, who brings a strong track record with an impressive win rate of 80%, is expected to elevate the Mountaineers with his defensive expertise.
WVU’s Director of Athletics, Wren Baker, praised Hodge for his leadership and success. “Ross has shown he can win and inspire both his players and the community,” Baker said. Hodge, 44, has enjoyed a successful eight-season stint at North Texas, including a solid 46-23 record as head coach. His team recently celebrated its 27th win of the season, heading into the semifinals of the NIT.
Upon accepting the position, Hodge expressed his appreciation for West Virginia’s culture and competitive spirit. He acknowledged the legacy of Mountaineer Basketball and is determined to uphold its traditions while fostering a winning mentality.
This year, Hodge’s North Texas team showed remarkable improvement, finishing second in the American Athletic Conference. They had 10 newcomers on the roster and still achieved an impressive 27 wins—the second most in school history. Their exceptional defense ranked third nationally, allowing only 59.9 points per game.
Hodge’s coaching journey began at the junior college level, where he built a reputation as one of the top coaches in the nation. He has a knack for developing strong defenses; North Texas has been among the best in the country in this area for the past five years. In fact, only one team—Houston—has allowed fewer points per game during that stretch.
Beyond statistics, expert opinions on Hodge’s hiring emphasize his potential impact. Scott Drew, head coach at Baylor, called Hodge a "home run hire" for the Big 12. Dusty May of Florida Atlantic noted Hodge’s blend of toughness and emotional intelligence as key traits for success at WVU.
The challenge ahead is significant. WVU has a rich basketball tradition and expect nothing short of excellence from their coaches. However, Hodge’s impressive history suggests he is well-equipped to take on this challenge. Notably, he helped North Texas achieve its first NCAA Tournament win and reach impressive postseason milestones.
Hodge’s unique ability to connect with players and foster team unity stands out. His coaching style reflects a deep commitment to personal relationships and community involvement, which many believe will resonate well within West Virginia’s passionate sports culture.
As Hodge transitions to this new role, the basketball community is eager to see how he will bring his winning culture to Morgantown. The Mountaineer Nation’s enthusiasm is palpable, and many fans anticipate a bright future under Hodge’s leadership.
For more insights into coaching hires and their implications for collegiate sports, visit NCAA.
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