Best Virginia Finalizes Roster Ahead of 2025 TBT in Charleston
Basketball is making its triumphant return to the Mountain State this weekend as Best Virginia, the West Virginia University alumni team, finalizes its roster ahead of the 2025 edition of The Basketball Tournament (TBT). With Charleston set to host the first-round games once again, the team and its fans are gearing up for another deep run, driven by pride, redemption, and a renewed sense of purpose.
This year’s squad blends beloved Mountaineer legends with hungry, athletic newcomers determined to etch their names in WVU lore. Leading the charge is none other than Kevin Jones, the battle-tested forward and emotional cornerstone of the team. After an All-TBT performance last summer, Jones returns not only to dominate the glass but to set the tone for a squad hell-bent on bringing home the $1 million prize.
Joining him is sharpshooter John Flowers, one of the original architects of Best Virginia’s identity. Known for his charismatic leadership and defensive prowess, Flowers adds grit, energy, and a never-back-down attitude. The roster also features Juwan Staten, the floor general whose court vision and clutch scoring have kept Best Virginia in countless games over the years. Staten’s ability to control tempo will be crucial in the single-elimination format.
But the buzz this year surrounds the addition of Teddy Allen, the fiery scorer and former Mountaineer who found his stride at New Mexico State. Allen brings microwave offense and an edge that could tip close games in Best Virginia’s favor. His inclusion marks a symbolic mending of old bridges and represents the program’s growing brotherhood.
On the bench, head coach James Long, a former WVU guard and current rising coaching talent, has meticulously crafted this year’s strategy around versatility and defense. “We know what this tournament means to the state,” Long said in a press conference earlier this week. “It’s not just about basketball; it’s about pride, family, and putting West Virginia on the map.”
And that pride will be on full display at the Charleston Coliseum, where tickets have been flying off the shelves. The city, once again chosen as a TBT regional host, will transform into a Mountaineer mecca. Blue and gold flags wave from porches, bars line up game-day specials, and local businesses proudly display “Let’s Go Mountaineers” signs in their windows. For one week in July, Charleston becomes the epicenter of the basketball universe in Appalachia.
Best Virginia opens play against Ram Nation, a tough VCU alumni squad known for their speed and defensive intensity. The matchup is a heavyweight bout—two programs with proud fanbases and unfinished business. It’s win or go home, and both teams know it.
But Best Virginia doesn’t plan on going home early. With seasoned leadership, a potent offense, and the support of the entire Mountain State behind them, this roster isn’t just built to compete. It’s built to win.
TBT is back. So is West Virginia basketball. And this time, the trophy isn’t just a dream—it’s a mission.
