After North Texas Falls Short in a Hard-Fought NIT Semifinal Battle, Head Coach Ross Hodge Shifts His Full Attention to West Virginia, Preparing to Bring His Grit, Coaching Prowess, and Relentless Work Ethic to the Mountaineers as He Embarks on a New Journey to Revitalize WVU Basketball and Restore the Program to Its Former Glory
The end of a season often signals the beginning of a new era, and for Ross Hodge, that transition is now in full swing. After leading North Texas to an impressive run in the National Invitation Tournament (NIT), only to fall just short of a championship, Hodge now turns his attention completely to West Virginia. The challenge ahead is daunting, but if his track record is any indication, he is more than ready to embrace it.
The Mountaineers, once a powerhouse in college basketball under the legendary Bob Huggins, have found themselves at a crossroads. Recent struggles in the Big 12, combined with the ever-changing landscape of college basketball—marked by the rise of the transfer portal and NIL deals—have left WVU in need of a leader capable of adapting, rebuilding, and restoring the program to national prominence.
Ross Hodge is that leader.
This article delves into the journey that brought Hodge to this point, his coaching philosophy, what he brings to West Virginia, and how he plans to revitalize the Mountaineers in one of the most competitive conferences in the country.
North Texas’ NIT Run and the Heartbreaking Semifinal Loss
Hodge’s tenure as the head coach of North Texas was short but impactful. After spending years as an assistant under Grant McCasland, he took the reins when McCasland departed for Texas Tech. Despite being in just his first season as a Division I head coach, Hodge proved he was more than capable of leading a successful program.
North Texas thrived under his leadership, making a deep run in the NIT. The Mean Green played their signature brand of basketball—gritty defense, disciplined offense, and a never-quit mentality that made them one of the toughest mid-major teams in the nation.
Their semifinal matchup, however, was a different story. Facing off against a battle-tested opponent, North Texas found itself in a back-and-forth contest that ultimately slipped away in the final moments. The loss was a disappointing end to an otherwise stellar season, but for Hodge, it also marked the beginning of a new challenge.
As the final buzzer sounded, the reality set in—his next chapter was about to begin in Morgantown.
Why West Virginia Chose Ross Hodge
When West Virginia began its search for a new head coach, they were looking for someone who could bring structure, discipline, and a winning mentality to a program in transition. Several names were floated as potential candidates, but Hodge quickly emerged as a top choice.
What made him the right fit for WVU?
1. Defensive Excellence
One of Hodge’s hallmarks as a coach is his emphasis on defense. At North Texas, he built one of the most suffocating defensive units in college basketball. His teams were known for forcing turnovers, contesting every shot, and making life miserable for opposing offenses.
West Virginia, once famous for Bob Huggins’ “Press Virginia” style, has lost some of that defensive identity in recent years. Hodge’s philosophy aligns with what Mountaineer fans love to see—hard-nosed, relentless defense that makes opponents work for every basket.
2. Player Development and Culture Building
Hodge isn’t just an X’s and O’s coach; he’s a culture builder. At North Texas, he took overlooked players and turned them into stars. He has a reputation for developing talent, fostering team chemistry, and instilling a winning mindset.
West Virginia is in need of stability and leadership, especially with the rise of the transfer portal. Hodge’s ability to connect with players and get the most out of his roster will be crucial as he looks to build a competitive team in Morgantown.
3. Adaptability in a Changing Landscape
College basketball is evolving. The transfer portal, NIL opportunities, and conference realignment have completely reshaped the game. Coaches who fail to adapt get left behind. Hodge has shown he understands the modern era of college basketball and knows how to navigate its challenges.
West Virginia needs a coach who can embrace these changes while maintaining the integrity of the program. Hodge’s experience at a mid-major level, where roster turnover is common, has prepared him well for this challenge.
The Challenges Ahead for Hodge at West Virginia
While Hodge brings plenty of optimism to Morgantown, he also faces several challenges as he takes over the Mountaineers.
1. Rebuilding the Roster
West Virginia has seen significant roster turnover in recent years. The combination of players graduating, transferring, and entering the NBA Draft has left the team in need of reinforcements. Hodge’s first priority will be identifying players—both incoming freshmen and transfers—who fit his system.
The transfer portal will be key. WVU needs experienced players who can contribute immediately, especially in a conference as tough as the Big 12. Hodge will have to be aggressive in recruiting and use his player development skills to mold the roster into a competitive unit.
2. Competing in the Big 12
The Big 12 is arguably the most competitive conference in college basketball. With powerhouses like Kansas, Baylor, and Houston dominating the league, West Virginia will have to find ways to compete against elite teams on a nightly basis.
Hodge’s defensive philosophy will be tested against high-powered offenses. His ability to scheme against top-tier opponents and get his team to buy into his system will determine how quickly WVU can climb the standings.
3. Winning Over the Fanbase
West Virginia fans are passionate, knowledgeable, and have high expectations for their basketball program. While they understand the need for a rebuild, they also want to see progress quickly.
Hodge will need to establish his identity early—whether through a signature win, a strong recruiting class, or a clear improvement in team performance. Earning the trust of the fanbase will be crucial as he works to restore West Virginia’s reputation as a basketball powerhouse.
What West Virginia Basketball Could Look Like Under Hodge
So, what will the Mountaineers look like under Ross Hodge?
1. A Defense-First Mentality
Expect West Virginia to return to its defensive roots. Hodge’s teams at North Texas were known for their defensive tenacity, and that philosophy will carry over to WVU. Opponents will have to work hard for every shot, and the Mountaineers will look to create offense through turnovers and fast-break opportunities.
2. Balanced, Disciplined Offense
Offensively, Hodge prioritizes efficiency. His teams at North Texas didn’t play at the fastest pace, but they were disciplined and took high-percentage shots. Expect WVU to emphasize ball movement, smart shot selection, and strategic half-court sets.
3. A Strong Locker Room Culture
One of Hodge’s biggest strengths is his ability to build a strong team culture. Players under his leadership buy into the system, work hard, and support one another. In an era where player movement is constant, having a stable locker room culture can be the difference between success and failure.
Looking Ahead: The Future of West Virginia Basketball
While the road ahead won’t be easy, there’s a sense of excitement surrounding Ross Hodge’s arrival in Morgantown. He brings a proven track record of success, a commitment to defense, and a coaching philosophy that aligns with what West Virginia basketball is all about.
If Hodge can successfully navigate the transfer portal, implement his defensive system, and establish a winning culture, there’s no reason WVU can’t return to being a serious contender in the Big 12.
For now, all eyes are on Hodge as he takes on the challenge of restoring West Virginia basketball. The journey won’t be easy, but with his leadership, the Mountaineers just might be on the path back to prominence.
