Morgantown, WV – The West Virginia University men’s basketball program is poised to become a significant player in the pursuit of one of the most coveted big men currently in the college basketball transfer portal. Sources indicate that the Mountaineers are preparing to engage with a former power conference standout, a player who was highly regarded as a high school prospect, and for whom a connection to the WVU coaching staff already exists. This pursuit comes as head coach Josh Eilert looks to bolster the frontcourt following a period of roster adjustments.
The transfer portal has become a central component of college basketball roster management, and landing a player of this caliber could dramatically alter West Virginia’s trajectory in the upcoming season. The team is navigating a period of change after the departure of former head coach Bob Huggins, and adding a proven talent would provide a boost both on the court and in recruiting. The focus on a big man suggests Eilert is prioritizing size and rebounding, areas where the Mountaineers could benefit from immediate improvement. The transfer portal officially opened on March 18, 2024, and continues to be a hub of activity as players seek new opportunities.
Who is the Target?
While the player’s name has not been officially released by the university, reporting suggests the focus is on 7-foot center, Favour Mark, who recently entered the transfer portal after two seasons at Kansas State University. Mark was a four-star recruit coming out of high school, ranked as the No. 88 overall player in the 2022 class by 247Sports. He averaged 4.3 points and 3.8 rebounds in 18.4 minutes per game during the 2023-24 season for the Wildcats.
Mark’s decision to enter the portal comes after a season where he saw limited playing time despite his potential. He’s seeking a situation where he can have a more significant role and further develop his game. West Virginia appears to be offering that opportunity, with Eilert and his staff emphasizing a player-centric approach to development. The Mountaineers have a history of successfully integrating transfer players, and they believe Mark could be a key piece of their future success.
The Connection to West Virginia
The “real connection” between Mark and the Mountaineers, as initially reported, stems from assistant coach Chester Frazier. Frazier previously recruited Mark when he was at Kansas State, building a rapport with the player and his family. This pre-existing relationship gives West Virginia a distinct advantage in the recruitment process. Frazier joined Eilert’s staff in April 2024, bringing with him valuable recruiting experience and established relationships. WVU Sports officially announced Frazier’s hiring on April 8, 2024.
Beyond Frazier’s connection, West Virginia’s style of play and the opportunities available in the Big 12 Conference are also appealing factors. The Big 12 is known for its physicality and competitive basketball, providing a platform for players to showcase their skills on a national stage. The Mountaineers’ emphasis on rebounding and interior defense aligns well with Mark’s strengths, potentially allowing him to thrive in Morgantown.
What This Means for WVU’s Roster
Adding a player like Mark would address a critical need for the Mountaineers. West Virginia’s frontcourt was relatively thin last season, and bolstering that position is a priority for Eilert. The team finished the 2023-24 season with a 17-15 overall record and a 6-12 mark in Big 12 play. Improving the team’s size and strength inside could lead to more consistent rebounding and a more formidable defensive presence.
The Mountaineers have already seen some roster turnover this offseason, with several players entering the transfer portal themselves. Landing Mark would help offset those departures and provide a significant upgrade in talent. It would also send a message to other potential recruits that West Virginia is serious about competing at a high level. The current roster includes returning players like Quinn Slazinski and Kobe Johnson, who will be expected to play key roles in the upcoming season.
The pursuit of Favour Mark is just one piece of West Virginia’s overall roster-building strategy. Eilert and his staff are actively evaluating other potential transfer targets and high school recruits. The goal is to create a well-rounded team that can compete for a spot in the NCAA Tournament. The early signing period for men’s basketball begins on November 13, 2024.
The next step in this recruitment will be scheduling a visit with Mark and his family. If the visit goes well, West Virginia could be in a strong position to land his commitment. The coaching staff will be looking to showcase the university, the basketball program, and the opportunities available to Mark in Morgantown. Fans can stay updated on the latest developments by following WVU men’s basketball on X (formerly Twitter) and checking official team releases on WVUSports.com.
We encourage you to share your thoughts on this developing story and West Virginia’s recruiting efforts in the comments below.
