Breaking News: Coach Ross Hodge Breaks Silence After Inking 3-Year Contract Deal With West Virginia
Morgantown, WV – June 24, 2025
In a seismic move that could reshape the future of Big 12 basketball, Coach Ross Hodge has officially inked a 3-year contract to become the new head coach of the West Virginia Mountaineers men’s basketball team. The announcement, confirmed early Tuesday morning, comes after weeks of speculation linking Hodge to multiple Power Five openings. The former North Texas head coach has now broken his silence on what many are calling a bold new era in Morgantown.
“This isn’t just another coaching job,” Hodge told reporters during his introductory press conference at the WVU Coliseum. “This is a calling. West Virginia has a championship culture, an unmatched fanbase, and a hunger that matches my own. I’m not here to rebuild — I’m here to elevate.”
The 46-year-old tactician, widely respected for his defensive schemes and gritty recruiting approach, led North Texas to consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances and a historic Sweet 16 run in 2024. His emphasis on toughness, player development, and tenacious defense drew admiration across the college basketball landscape.
According to sources within WVU Athletics, the deal is worth $9 million over three years, including performance bonuses, relocation incentives, and NIL support guarantees — a sign that the Mountaineers are all-in on returning to national prominence.
WVU Athletic Director Wren Baker, who previously worked alongside Hodge at North Texas, called the hire a “home run.”
“Ross knows how to win. He understands what this program stands for — hard work, pride, and grit. I have no doubt he’ll have us dancing in March year after year.”
Hodge wasted no time addressing the future, reaching out to key players from last season’s roster and planning an aggressive summer recruiting push. Rumors are already swirling that several top transfer portal targets have WVU on their radar.
In a passionate closing remark, Hodge made his intentions clear:
“We’re not here to compete. We’re here to dominate. Let’s bring a banner to Morgantown.”
Stay tuned — the Hodge era has officially begun.
