West Virginia Keeps NCAA Tournament Hopes Alive

Mountaineers remain in the mix for March Madness despite rebuilding year

Feb. 7, 2026 at 1:07pm

According to ESPN, the West Virginia Mountaineers men's basketball team still has a legitimate shot at making the NCAA Tournament this season, despite being in the midst of a rebuilding year under first-year head coach Ross Hodge. The team's recent road win over Cincinnati has kept them in the conversation, though they face an uphill climb with just a 13% chance of earning an at-large bid based on current metrics.

Why it matters

Making the NCAA Tournament would be a remarkable accomplishment for West Virginia given the roster turnover and coaching change they've undergone this season. Even earning a spot in the NIT would represent significant progress as the program lays a new foundation under Hodge.

The details

West Virginia currently sits outside the top 60 in resume metrics, but their win over Kansas last month and the relative ease of their remaining schedule provide hope. The Mountaineers are projected to finish with more wins than Oklahoma State, Baylor, and TCU down the stretch, giving them a path to improve their tournament chances by taking care of business.

  • West Virginia defeated Cincinnati on the road on Thursday.
  • The Mountaineers play #13 Texas Tech at home on February 8.

The players

Ross Hodge

First-year head coach of the West Virginia Mountaineers men's basketball team.

West Virginia Mountaineers

The men's basketball team at West Virginia University, currently navigating a rebuilding year under new head coach Ross Hodge.

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What’s next

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The takeaway

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