West Virginia vs. Kansas: A Rivalry Transformed

Photo courtesy of BlueGoldNew.com
WVU interim coach Josh Eilert gives his team instructions during a recent game. The Mountaineers host No. 3 Kansas at 4 p.m. today at the Coliseum in Morgantown.

The History of a Rivalry

When No. 3 Kansas faces West Virginia at the Coliseum today, it will mark a significant change in the dynamic between the two teams. Since West Virginia joined the Big 12 in 2013, the matchup has been defined by the presence of two Hall of Fame coaches, Bill Self at Kansas and Bob Huggins at WVU. Self’s Kansas team has dominated the series, winning 21 out of 27 games, but Huggins’ Mountaineers have put up a fight despite facing a ranked Kansas team in almost every game. The rivalry has been marked by spirited competition and is known for the coaching prowess of both Self and Huggins.

A New Era

With Huggins no longer coaching the Mountaineers, this game takes on a new significance. Kansas coach Bill Self acknowledges the absence of his long-time competitor, expressing that he may miss seeing Huggins on this trip to Morgantown. Self also praises the job WVU interim coach Josh Eilert has done in a difficult situation, stepping in for a coaching legend with limited experience as a head coach.

The Challenges for Eilert

Eilert’s task of replacing Huggins is not an easy one. Huggins was a larger-than-life figure, known for his unique coaching style and controversial persona. Eilert, with only one year of experience as a bench assistant, now finds himself in charge of a team carrying the weight of Huggins’ legacy. Additionally, Eilert has had to navigate the season without key starters, further complicating his role as interim coach.

A Changed Team

Self acknowledges that WVU’s roster has undergone significant changes since the start of the season. Eilert has added players to the active roster, but injuries have still impacted the team’s performance. Self believes that when WVU has all their players available, they will be a formidable opponent for anyone. He specifically mentions Jesse Edwards as a standout player who, when healthy, can make a significant impact on the court.

A Tale of Two Teams

Kansas, a national championship contender, brings a strong lineup led by top transfer Hunter Dickerson and guard Kevin McCullar. The Jayhawks have an impressive record of 15-2 and are expected to be a tough competitor in the Big 12 conference. On the other hand, WVU has struggled this season with a record of 6-11, but Self recognizes the challenging circumstances Eilert has faced.

The Game Ahead

As West Virginia and Kansas face off in their latest matchup, the absence of Huggins and the new era under Eilert add intrigue to the contest. Fans will witness a transformed rivalry, with new dynamics and challenges for both teams. The game holds the potential for surprises and showcases the resilience of the Mountaineers under their interim coach.

Stay Updated

Sign up for our newsletter to receive breaking news and updates delivered directly to your inbox.