Ross Hodge, a highly accomplished coach with an impressive winning record, has been appointed as the 24th head men’s basketball coach at West Virginia University. Known for his defensive strategies and winning, Hodge brings breath of fresh air to the Mountaineers program. Over his coaching career, he has established himself as one of the nation’s top defensive minds, with a track record of success that includes victories in more than 80% of his games as a head coach. Read more West Virginia Selects Ross Hodge to be its 24th head coach.
True Winner
Hodge, 44, joins WVU after spending the past eight seasons at North Texas, where he played a key role in transforming the University into a respectable basketball program.
In his last two seasons, Hodge served as head coach at North Texas, boasting a record of 46-23. Throughout his seven seasons as a head coach, Hodge has compiled an outstanding 192-47 record (.803). His five-year deal with WVU shows the university’s faith in his leadership and ability to build a competitive program.
READ: POSTGAME TAKEAWAYS: COACH SABINS SPEAKS ON WVU’S VICTORY
This season, Hodge led North Texas to a remarkable improvement, winning 8 more games than season prior and finishing second in AAC, surpassing the team’s preseason projections. The Mean Green roster included 10 newcomers, Hodge’s leadership helped North Texas overcome a roster overhaul. This overhaul included the loss of their top six scorers and four starters from the prior season. North Texas finished this season with 27 wins, the second-most in school history. They also won 14 conference games, the most in the program’s tenure in the AAC.
Defensive Prowess
Hodge’s defensive strategy has been a cornerstone to his success. North Texas ranked third in points per game allowed, allowing just 59.9 points per game. Hodge’s defensive units have been consistently strong, with North Texas earning a reputation as one of the best defensive teams in college basketball over the past several years.
Since 2020, the Mean Green have allowed an average of just 59.2 points per game, second only to Houston. In the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons, his defense ranked as the nation’s best, holding opponents to an average of just 55.7 and 55.8 points per game, respectively.
The Journey
Hodge’s coaching journey spans multiple stops, each contributing to his development as a coach. Before his time at North Texas, he worked at Arkansas State, where he served as associate head coach for one season. His tenure there was marked by a significant improvement in the team’s performance, including a 10-win turnaround.
Prior to that, Hodge worked at Colorado State, where he helped the Rams to an 87-48 record and postseason appearances, including a notable run to the NCAA Tournament in 2013. His coaching career began at Southern Miss, where he helped lead the team to a 25-9 record and an at-large berth in the NCAA Tournament.
Hodge’s success also extends to the junior college ranks, where he achieved remarkable success at Paris Junior College and Midland College. At Midland, he compiled a 63-7 record, guiding the team to the NJCAA Championship game in 2011. His teams were consistently successful, and his leadership earned him numerous accolades, including conference coach of the year honors.
New Beginnings
Ross Hodge’s appointment as head coach at West Virginia University marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the Mountaineers. With his focus on defense, team chemistry, and player development, Hodge is poised to make a significant impact at WVU and continue the program’s tradition of success. His leadership, along with the support of his family, will help guide the Mountaineers to new heights in the competitive landscape of college basketball.
Hodge stated, “It is with great honor and humility that I accept the head men’s basketball coaching position at West Virginia University,”. Hodges also said “I have such respect for the toughness, grit and pride of the people of West Virginia, and my hope is that we can reflect that with how our team competes on the court.” This is the attitude needed in Morgantown and Hodges has a great mixture of winning culture and leading gritty basketball teams.
