West Virginia men’s basketball coach Darian DeVries is eager for his squad to play in front of fans
In a recent press conference, DeVries expressed his excitement for the upcoming season, emphasizing the team’s progress since their summer trip to Italy and the work done throughout the offseason.
“Our guys are ready to play somebody else,” DeVries said. “We’ve been practicing, but nothing compares to playing in front of a crowd. It’s a different kind of energy, and we’re excited for that.”
DeVries, who stepped in as head coach earlier this year, admitted the transition has been nonstop but rewarding.
“When you take over a program, there’s no built-in little break. You’re working right up to the start of the season, but I love it,” DeVries said.
DeVries also highlighted the team’s chemistry as a crucial component of their success.
“Team chemistry is vital,” DeVries said. “It’s something we focus on every day. The only way to get through a 30-game season is if you have great chemistry.”
Looking forward, DeVries acknowledged that preseason rankings aren’t a focus for him or the team, emphasizing that the real evaluations will come once the games begin.
“We’re a team no one has seen yet, so until you start playing games then you start to figure out you know who’s got what,” DeVries said.
As the Mountaineers prepare for their season opener, DeVries is confident in his team’s ability to stretch the floor and adapt.
“This summer and fall was all about putting in the work to make sure we’re in a great space, and now it’s just about making adjustments,” DeVries said.
With a new coach at the helm and a refreshed roster, West Virginia basketball is set for an intriguing season ahead. Fans will get their first glimpse of the team in an exhibition game next Friday versus the Univesity of Charleston (D2).
