West Virginia Opens With a 91-46 Win and a Nine-Man Rotation
West Virginia beat Niagara 91-46 in its season opener on November 2, after trailing by as many as 10 points. The game offered an early look at coach Ross Hodge’s starting lineup and rotation.
West Virginia began its season with a 91-46 victory over Niagara on November 2, overcoming an early deficit that reached 10 points. The Mountaineers tightened their defense and attacked the basket more effectively as the game progressed, turning the matchup into a rout.
Coach Ross Hodge started guards Miles Sadler and Finley Bizjack, forwards Seydou Traore and Brenen Lorient, and center Mouhamed Sylla. Traore has started at forward in each of the last three games, including exhibitions, after Joson Sanon opened the first exhibition in that spot. Traore played 15 minutes against Niagara, while Sanon logged 20. The two could alternate in the starting role depending on the opponent, though both are expected to contribute substantial minutes.
Each starter made a contribution. Sadler came close to a double-double, falling one assist short. Bizjack had trouble with his shot but drew fouls, Traore helped defensively, Lorient made shots, and Sylla went 5-for-5 from the field and collected seven rebounds.
The other players in the rotation were guard Martin Somerville, Sanon, forward Javan Buchanan and center Amadou Seini, giving West Virginia nine players in the group. Somerville, Sanon and Buchanan each showed potential to provide a scoring lift off the bench. Freshman Keonte Greybear appears to be outside the rotation for now and may spend the season developing, barring injuries. Hodge’s choices could shift as non-conference play continues.