The men’s basketball head coaching position remains open following Darian DeVries’ departure. Three new coaches emerged as potential candidates to fill the vacancy.
Attention has been directed to current Wake Forest head coach Steve Forbes. While Forbes has led the Demon Deacons to three 20-win seasons in the last four years, he has yet to take them to an NCAA Tournament. Wake Forest sits fourth among North Carolina schools behind Duke, UNC, and NC State making it difficult when it comes to recruiting and NIL compensation. Despite these struggles, Forbes has won 13 ACC games twice, tying the program record.
Conversation has also revolved around North Texas head coach Ross Hodge. Hodge was the associate head coach at North Texas when current WVU athletic director Wren Baker served as the school’s athletic director. This season, Hodge broke the program record for most league wins in a coach’s first year with 24. While North Texas did not make it to the NCAA Tournament they are currently playing in the NIT.
Richard Pitino, son of well known head coach Rick Pitino, is the final new name in the running for head coach. During his four seasons with New Mexico, he has an overall record of 88-49 and led the Lobos to a 27-8 overall record this season. During their NCAA Tournament appearance, New Mexico upset No. 7 Marquette before falling to Michigan State in the Second Round.
While no decision has been made, Wren Baker ensured fans he is working diligently to find the best candidate to fill the position.
