**WVU Men’s Coach Darian DeVries Given Game Ball for His First Power 4 Win**
West Virginia University men’s basketball coach Darian DeVries received the game ball following his first victory against a Power 4 program on Monday night, marking a significant milestone in his career. DeVries, who took over as head coach for the Mountaineers this season, had been facing a challenging schedule that tested his team’s resolve and his ability to adapt at the highest level of college basketball. The win, which came in a thrilling matchup against a well-regarded opponent, was a testament to both DeVries’ coaching acumen and his team’s resilience.
The Power 4 label refers to the top conferences in college basketball: the ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, and SEC. These leagues represent the pinnacle of competition in the sport, and victories against teams from these conferences are often considered a defining benchmark for any coach, especially one in their first year at a program. DeVries, who previously enjoyed a successful tenure at Drake University, where he revitalized the Bulldogs’ basketball program, had already shown his ability to develop and motivate players, but his first Power 4 win was a momentous occasion that captured the attention of both WVU fans and college basketball observers.
West Virginia’s victory on Monday night was hard-earned, as the team faced off against a highly ranked opponent with a wealth of talent. The Mountaineers’ performance was marked by gritty defense, efficient offense, and clutch moments down the stretch—elements that DeVries had emphasized in his short time at the helm. Throughout the game, DeVries demonstrated his tactical expertise, making timely adjustments to exploit his opponent’s weaknesses while maximizing his own team’s strengths.
After the final buzzer, DeVries was presented with the game ball by athletic director Ren Baker, who praised the coach for his leadership and the team’s growth under his guidance. “This win is a huge step forward for Coach DeVries and our program,” Baker said during the ceremony. “Darian has instilled a strong culture of hard work and accountability, and tonight, that culture was on full display. We’re proud of what the team accomplished, and this is just the beginning.”
For DeVries, the victory served as both a personal achievement and a statement of intent. Having taken over a program with a rich history and high expectations, the pressure to succeed was always going to be immense. His experience as a coach, however, has helped him navigate the demands of Power 4 basketball, and the win on Monday was an affirmation that the Mountaineers are headed in the right direction under his leadership.
Beyond the tactical aspects, DeVries’ ability to connect with his players has been another key component of his success. In interviews, players have spoken highly of the coach’s approachable yet demanding nature. Forward Jalen Bridges, one of the standout performers in the victory, said, “Coach DeVries pushes us to be the best versions of ourselves, and he believes in us. This win is for him just as much as it is for the team.”
The Mountaineers’ win is sure to have a lasting impact on the team’s morale and on the perception of DeVries’ coaching abilities. The victory not only boosted WVU’s standing in the national rankings but also reinforced the notion that under DeVries, the Mountaineers can compete at the highest level of college basketball. For DeVries himself, receiving the game ball was a moment of recognition and validation for the hard work that has gone into building this team. As the season progresses, this win may very well serve as the catalyst for even greater success.
