West Virginia University will face Lehigh University on Sunday, March 10, 2024, at Hope Coliseum, concluding the first week of the season for both teams. The Mountaineers enter the game with a record of 2-0 after a hard-fought 73-65 win over Campbell, while the Mountain Hawks look to secure their first victory after starting the season 0-2.
Lehigh is coming off a dominant 91-52 victory against Division III Valley Forge on March 7, 2024. The Mountain Hawks showcased a strong performance led by freshman guard Andrew Urosevic, who scored 23 points in the win. Despite their struggles earlier in the season, including a 75-57 loss to second-ranked Houston, Lehigh demonstrated resilience by outscoring the Cougars 34-31 in the second half after trailing significantly at halftime.
Under the leadership of veteran coach Brett Reed, who is in his 19th season at Lehigh with an overall record of 287-261, the team aims to bounce back this weekend. Lehigh was picked to finish eighth in the Patriot League’s Preseason Poll, just ahead of Holy Cross and Army. Historically, the Mountain Hawks have faced West Virginia five times and have yet to secure a victory, with their last meeting resulting in a 78-68 loss during their last visit to Morgantown on December 30, 2018.
West Virginia’s coach, Ross Hodge, praised his team’s effort after their recent victory. Guard Honor Huff led the Mountaineers with a game-high 23 points, contributing significantly to the team’s success. Hodge noted the importance of maintaining composure during close games, stating, “We’re going to be in a lot of close games this year… we’re getting great shots from some of the best shooters in the country.”
The Mountaineers have shown promise this season, with forward Brenen Lorient delivering impressive performances, including 12 points, nine rebounds, five blocks, and four assists against Campbell. He also recorded a double-double in the season opener against Mount St. Mary’s, further solidifying his role as a key player for West Virginia.
Looking ahead to the game against Lehigh, Hodge has maintained a consistent starting lineup, featuring Huff, Jasper Floyd, and Treysen Eaglestaff in the backcourt, complemented by Lorient and Harlan Obioha in the frontcourt. The bench will include junior guard Morris Ugusuk, freshman forward DJ Thomas, and freshman guard Amir Jenkins.
With tickets still available for the Sunday afternoon game, fans can purchase them through WVUGAME.com. The matchup will be broadcast live on ESPN+, with coverage beginning at 15:00 local time. The Mountaineer Sports Network from Learfield will provide radio coverage starting at 14:00, featuring the Coca-Cola Mountaineer Pregame Show.
As both teams prepare for this exciting clash, the outcome will be crucial for their early-season momentum, especially for Lehigh as they seek their first win of the campaign.
