West Virginia’s Mountaineers will host the Mercyhurst Lakers this Sunday for a nonconference match at Hope Coliseum. The game is set to tip off at 3 p.m. This matchup comes as the Mountaineers look to rebound from their recent struggles, having lost to Clemson and Xavier in the Shriners Children’s Charleston Classic.
Recent Performance
West Virginia enters the game with a 5-2 record. However, they faced setbacks last weekend, first falling to Clemson 70-67, followed by a 78-68 defeat against Xavier. In the matchup against Clemson, the Mountaineers held a significant lead but failed to maintain their momentum, allowing the Tigers to mount a comeback.
Against Xavier, the Mountaineers struggled defensively, particularly against the opponent’s effective three-point shooting, which proved detrimental. Coach Hodge expressed disappointment but remained optimistic about the team’s potential and future performance.
Key Players
Senior guard Honor Huff leads the team, averaging 17 points per game. He has displayed scoring consistency, achieving double figures in every game except one. Treysen Eaglestaff’s performance against Xavier, where he scored 20 points, marks a positive shift, making him the fifth player this season to surpass the 20-point mark.
Senior forward Brenen Lorient also contributes significantly, averaging 11.3 points per game. Newly eligible forward Chance Moore scored 16 points in his first game against Clemson but failed to score in the following match.
Coach Hodge expects senior forward Jackson Fields to return, enhancing the team’s performance. Fields averaged 7.9 points and 4.8 rebounds for Troy last season before suffering an injury. His experience from participating in NCAA tournaments is valuable.
Opposition Overview: Mercyhurst Lakers
The Lakers, coached by Gary Manchel, own a 3-4 record after a recent defeat to Marshall, where Jake Lemelman scored 21 points. Lemelman averages 13.9 points per game, ranking second on the team, behind Bernie Blunt III, who leads with 16.3 points per game. This game marks Mercyhurst’s second appearance at Hope Coliseum; they previously played West Virginia last year and lost 67-46.
Viewing Options and Ticket Information
Fans can catch the game on ESPN+. Additionally, the Mountaineer Sports Network will provide radio coverage featuring Tony Caridi, Brad Howe, and David Kahn. Tickets are available for purchase through WVUGAME.com.
The Mountaineers aim to leverage their home-court advantage as they face the Lakers. With both teams looking to improve their standings, Sunday’s game at Hope Coliseum promises to be an exciting contest.
