This week has been one of uncertainty for the future of West Virgina men’s basketball.
The Mountaineers moved on from interim head coach Josh Eilert on Wednesday, and at the same time, famed donor and Arizona Diamondbacks owner Ken Kendrick said, “his [Huggins] future with WVU sports is totally at an end.”
Now, it appears another WVU donor and businessman Ike Morris is defending Huggins and saying he believes he is the best option right now.
West Virginia News first reported this, quoting Morris to say he wants Huggins back at his former position, while he also shared his feelings for what Kendrick said.
“Don’t get me wrong, (Mr. Kendricks) has probably done so much good for the University but he truly does not know Bob Huggins as well as I do,” Morris said.
Morris reiterated the fact that Huggins should be back saying, “I have no doubt in my mind (he should return),” Morris said. The article then added that Morris wants it put to a state vote.
Kendrick’s name was recently put on the WVU baseball stadium, something Morris says may have killed any chance at Huggins returning.
“The quick fix is Bob Huggins,” Morris said. “I’m just saying it and it’s my opinion. Mr. Kendricks has his opinion and I’m sure with them naming the baseball field after him and all he’s done that may have killed the deal.”
All of this comes on the heels of WVU finishing the 2023-2024 season last in the Big 12, and their fewest wins in a season since 2001-2002. Bob Huggins came to WVU in the 2007-2008 season, but retired following two incidents this past summer, including a DUI in Pittsburgh.
Morris said that he doesn’t accept Huggins’ actions as right, while also recognizing second chances can be given. Morris has done a lot of philanthropic work with WVU.
WVU has now begun a national search to find a full-time replacement after Eilert had served in an interim role this season.
