Pat White Stuns West Virginia with Massive Gift — Donates Two Custom Luxury Buses to WVU Football: “This Is Home, and We Ride Like Champions”
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (June 22, 2025) – In a moment that left West Virginia University players, staff, and fans awestruck, WVU legend Pat White stepped forward with a gift befitting champions: two custom luxury team buses, complete with high-end amenities and personalized logo wraps. The announcement came during an emotional “Back Home” ceremony at Mountaineer Field’s parking lot, where the former Heisman‑finalist stood proudly beside the gleaming coaches — a dazzling gift he says is “my way of giving back to the program that made me.”
Homegrown Hero: a Gift with Heart
White, who led the Mountaineers to two BCS bowl victories and turned Morgantown into a national stage, returned this weekend to dedicate the buses. “This is where it all started,” he said, emotion in his voice. “Every time I traveled, every time I suited up down the road, I carried West Virginia in my heart. Now, I want these kids to ride like champions on the way there, too.”
The buses — each seating up to 50 — come equipped with climate-controlled leather seats, Wi‑Fi, reclining capabilities, and full restroom facilities. One bus even features a retractable rooftop viewing deck for media coverage or pregame celebrations. Both boast the WVU “Flying WV” logo on the front and a bold White #7 signature wrapped around the rear.
A Program Poised for More
Athletic Director Martina Jackson praised the gesture: “Pat’s legacy isn’t just stats and milestones. It’s spirit, pride, and unwavering commitment to WVU excellence. These buses will elevate our program — not only for our student-athletes, but for recruits, families, and fans who travel to every road game.”
Head Coach Ray Taylor echoed that excitement: “When you show up on the road in a luxury bus carrying your school’s legacy — with Pat White’s name behind it — it sends a message: we are proud, we are united, and we expect to win.”
Community and Player Impact
Representatives from the senior class were given first access to the new fleet, boarding the buses at the ceremony to applause from teammates and fans. Junior quarterback Marcus Brown, visibly moved, remarked, “This is more than just a ride to the stadium — it’s motivation, tradition, and a reminder of what this jersey means.”
Local vendors, tapped to supply mobile catering for the team buses, were part of the twist — a nod to White’s desire to also boost Morgantown’s economy. Mini‑tailgate set‑ups with West Virginia pepperoni rolls and soft drinks were unveiled inside the bus galley. Morgantown Mayor Denise Carter called it “a perfect way to mix Mountaineer pride with community support.”
The Ride Is Just Beginning
With two elite buses at the program’s disposal, WVU officially upgraded its travel logistics — freeing older coaches for use by the basketball team, future recruiting visits, and band travel. More importantly, the donation adds a tangible boost to culture. Pat White summed it up succinctly: “This is home, and we ride like champions.”
As the sun set over the Blue–Gold turf, the buses gleamed under the stadium lights, carrying not only players but a legacy — one fueled by heart, ambition, and an unwavering belief in West Virginia’s future.
