As the West Virginia University (WVU) women’s basketball team prepares for the 2025–26 season, Head Coach Mark Kellogg faces the formidable task of replacing the significant contributions of departing seniors JJ Quinerly and Kyah Watson. Quinerly, a dynamic guard, concluded her collegiate career with over 2,000 points and 328 steals, earning accolades such as three-time First-Team All-Big 12 and two-time Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year. She was subsequently drafted by the Dallas Wings in the 2025 WNBA Draft . Watson, renowned for her defensive prowess and versatility, consistently impacted games beyond the stat sheet, often leading in rebounds, steals, and assists .
To fill the void left by these standout players, Coach Kellogg is looking to a combination of returning athletes and new talent. Senior guard Jordan Harrison, known for her quickness and defensive tenacity, is expected to take on a more prominent role in the backcourt. Junior guard Gia Cooke, with her scoring ability and experience, will also be pivotal in the team’s offensive strategies. In the frontcourt, junior forward Carter McCray brings size and rebounding strength, while sophomore forward Jordan Thomas offers versatility and athleticism .
Additionally, the coaching staff anticipates significant contributions from incoming freshmen and transfers. Freshman guard Madison Parrish, hailing from William Mason High School, is expected to add depth to the guard rotation with her shooting and playmaking skills. Graduate transfer Kierra Wheeler, a forward from Norfolk State, brings experience and a strong presence in the paint .
Coach Kellogg emphasizes a team-oriented approach to compensate for the loss of Quinerly and Watson. “It’s not about replacing them individually,” he notes, “but about each player stepping up and embracing their roles to collectively fill the gap.” The team’s focus will be on maintaining a high level of defensive intensity and fostering a balanced offensive attack.
As the Mountaineers embark on this new chapter, the blend of seasoned players and fresh talent aims to uphold the program’s competitive spirit and strive for continued success in the Big 12 Conference.
