West Virginia Overcomes Mississippi Valley State,86-51,Amidst Player Absence adn Program Reset
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West Virginia secured a decisive 86-51 victory over Mississippi Valley State on Monday night,but the win was tempered by the unexpected absence of key forward Chance Moore. The victory offers a moment of respite for a program still navigating the fallout from last year’s coaching change and a string of challenges.
The Mountaineers’ win came as a welcome sign for a fanbase still reeling from the resignation of former head coach bob Huggins in the summer of 2023 and the subsequent difficulties the team has faced. The team’s performance on Monday night provided a much-needed boost.
Moore Sits, Eaglestaff Steps Up
Forward Chance Moore, a transfer from St. Bonaventure, remained on the bench throughout the game against the Delta Devils. Moore had previously missed the first five games of the season due to eligibility requirements, but had since established himself as a valuable contributor, averaging 12.1 points and a team-leading 6.1 rebounds per game in his seven appearances.
The question of Moore’s absence immediately followed the final buzzer.Head coach Ross Hodge explained that Moore “wasn’t feeling great during warm-ups,” adding, “It wasn’t really like anything major, or anything that we feel concerned about moving forward.” Hodge emphasized that the decision to hold Moore out was a precautionary one made in consultation with the training staff, stating, “He’s been a full participant.”
In Moore’s place, starting forward Treysen Eaglestaff delivered a standout performance, scoring a game-high 23 points while shooting 9-of-16 from the field and 4-of-10 from beyond the arc. This performance matched Eaglestaff’s season best.
The Mountaineers also benefited from a strong showing from senior guard Honor Huff, who connected on four three-pointers. This performance propelled Huff back to the top of the NCAA leaderboard for three-pointers made this season, with a total of 53.
“there was nothing that happened, nothing that gave us any inclination that this could even be a possibility,” Hodge stated regarding Moore’s condition. “He just wasn’t feeling good enough and wasn’t feeling great. So, you never want to put somebody out there in a compromising situation like that. But, yeah, he hasn’t missed any practice time, any workouts – nothing.”
Looking Ahead to Big 12 Play
West Virginia will next be in action on January 2, when thay open their Big 12 Conference schedule against Iowa state. The game is scheduled for a 9:00 p.m.EST tip-off and will be televised on ESPN2. this marks a crucial transition for the Mountaineers as they enter conference competition.
Why did Chance Moore sit out? Forward Chance Moore was held out of Monday’s game against Mississippi Valley State due to feeling unwell during warm-ups. Head coach Ross Hodge described it as Moore “wasn’t feeling great” and a precautionary measure.
Who was the standout performer? Treysen Eaglestaff stepped up in Moore’s absence, leading the Mountaineers with a game-high 23 points. Honor Huff also contributed considerably, making four three-pointers and regaining the NCAA lead in three-pointers made.
what was the final score? West Virginia defeated Mississippi Valley State 86-51. The win provided a positive moment for the program following a challenging period.
How did the game end? The Mountaineers dominated the Delta Devils,
