New head coach Ross Hodge aims to establish his basketball culture at West Virginia, emphasizing familiarity by bringing in players who have previously played under him. Hodge has added six players to the roster, including forward Brenen Lorient and guard Jasper Floyd, who played crucial roles for him at North Texas. Lorient, a key contributor with impressive stats, showcases potential for further growth, especially in three-point shooting.
Lorient's development under Hodge has been significant, transitioning from limited minutes and production at Florida Atlantic to a standout player at North Texas. Meanwhile, Floyd's experience as a primary ball handler at North Texas positions him as a valuable asset in guiding his teammates and aligning with Hodge's coaching expectations. Their seamless integration into the team reflects the importance of established chemistry and understanding of Hodge's system, particularly in reinforcing defensive strategies like the no-middle approach. This cohesion is essential given the team's evolving roster and the need for players who grasp and embody the program's standards.