In a year filled with remarkable achievements and challenges, West Virginia University (WVU) has witnessed several milestones across various sports. From the women's basketball team's impressive rise to national prominence under new coach Mark Kellogg to the draft journey of baseball star JJ Wetherholt, WVU athletes have demonstrated resilience and excellence. Additionally, the football program saw significant changes with Rich Rodriguez taking over, while offensive linemen Zach Frazier and Wyatt Milum continued the tradition of excellence on the gridiron.
A Season of Triumphs and Challenges for WVU Women's Basketball
In the heart of autumn, the WVU women's basketball team emerged as one of the most thrilling teams in the country. Under the leadership of Coach Mark Kellogg, who took the helm in 2023, the squad became known for its dynamic play style reminiscent of Bob Huggins' Press Virginia era. Key players like JJ Quinerly and Jordan Harrison propelled the team to new heights, culminating in a No. 8 seed in the NCAA Tournament during the sport's 50th anniversary at WVU. Despite facing formidable odds, including an unfavorable seeding and playing on the home court of top-seeded Iowa, the Mountaineers showcased their mettle, nearly upsetting the Hawkeyes before falling 64-54. The game drew an impressive 4.9 million viewers, underscoring the team's growing national appeal.
The match against Iowa was particularly noteworthy, as it highlighted both the strengths and limitations of the Mountaineers. While Caitlin Clark, Iowa's star player, managed to score 32 points, her performance was far from her best, making only 8 of 22 field goals. This indicated that WVU had the potential to compete at the highest level. Coach Kellogg expressed his belief that his team deserved better recognition, noting that they were capable of achieving more in future seasons.
JJ Wetherholt's Journey from WVU to the Pros
Baseball shortstop JJ Wetherholt's final season at WVU was marked by highs and lows. Once considered a top draft prospect after an outstanding sophomore year, Wetherholt faced numerous injuries that affected his performance. Despite these setbacks, he finished the season with a respectable .331 batting average, which, though lower than his previous standards, still caught the attention of scouts. The St. Louis Cardinals selected him in the seventh round of the first round draft, recognizing his potential. Wetherholt's subsequent success in the rookie league, where he batted .295, positioned him well for future opportunities, potentially reuniting him with former teammate Victor Scott II in the Cardinals' lineup.
Continuing Excellence in Football: The Legacy of Offensive Linemen
As Rich Rodriguez assumed control of the WVU football team, he retained only two coaches from the previous regime, signaling a new direction. Among the departures was offensive line coach Matt Moore, who moved to North Carolina State. However, Moore's legacy at WVU was cemented by the stellar performances of Zach Frazier and Wyatt Milum. Frazier, drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers, quickly established himself as a starter, earning praise for his work ethic and skill. Milum, meanwhile, achieved consensus All-America honors, joining an elite group of WVU offensive linemen. His flawless record of not allowing a sack in 34 of his 36 games speaks volumes about his dominance on the field.
From the perspective of a sports journalist, this year's events at WVU serve as a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of recognizing talent. The women's basketball team's near-upset of Iowa, despite the disadvantages, highlights the need for fairer tournament structures. Similarly, JJ Wetherholt's journey reminds us that setbacks are part of growth, and true potential often shines through adversity. Lastly, the continued excellence of WVU's offensive linemen underscores the significance of strong coaching and development programs in nurturing future stars.