Mountaineers and Camels Face Off Thursday Night
On Thursday night, West Virginia University will host Campbell University for an exciting basketball matchup. This game marks the continuation of a busy schedule for the Mountaineers and promises to deliver thrilling action.
Campbell University Overview
The Campbell Camels, part of the Coastal Athletic Association, are entering this clash following a heavy defeat against the University of Wisconsin. They lost 96-54 in their most recent outing. This game is part of a challenging tour for Campbell, which includes future games against powerhouses like Wake Forest, Penn State, and Minnesota, culminating in a face-off against 21st-ranked Gonzaga on December 17.
- Head Coach: John Andrzejek
- Last Game: 54-point loss to Wisconsin
- Notable Player: D.J. Smith, senior guard with 23 points in the opener
- Recent Transfers: Seven players from the transfer portal, all averaging nine points or more last season
Coaching and Team Strategy
Coach John Andrzejek is in his first season at Campbell. Previously, he was an assistant with the national champion Florida Gators. Andrzejek seeks to replicate the Gators’ successful strategies, emphasizing elite positional size, skilled shooting, and relentless rebounding.
Campbell’s starting lineup against Wisconsin featured various experienced players, including:
- D.J. Smith – 6-foot senior guard
- Jeremiah Johnson – 6-foot-4 senior
- Cam Gregory – 6-foot-5 senior
- Muneer Newton – 6-foot-5 senior
- Dovydas Butka – 6-foot-9 sophomore
West Virginia University Update
In contrast, West Virginia comes off a strong season-opening victory against Mount St. Mary’s, winning 70-54. This win was significant for new head coach Ross Hodge, who celebrated his first victory with the team.
- Key Players: Jasper Floyd (25 points) and Brenen Lorient (11 points, 13 rebounds)
- Transfers: Honor Huff contributed 16 points despite struggles from long range
- Lineup: Included a mix of guards and big men
Challenges Ahead
West Virginia faces some challenges early in the season. They will play their initial games without two crucial transfers, Chance Moore and Jackson Fields. Moore is dealing with NCAA transfer clearance, while Fields is recovering from an injury.
Hodge admitted that the team may struggle with adjustments, particularly in juggling player combinations and managing foul trouble. The coach emphasized the need for gradual improvement.
Game Details
The matchup between the Mountaineers and the Camels is scheduled for a 7 p.m. tip-off. Fans can tune in on ESPN+. The Mountaineer Sports Network will provide additional coverage starting at 6 p.m.
This game is notable as Campbell makes its first-ever visit to Morgantown, setting the stage for an electrifying encounter between the two teams.
Tickets for the game are available online through WVUGAME.com, ensuring fans do not miss this thrilling matchup.
