NCAA Basketball: Butler, SDSU headline National Coach of the Year rankings

Bob Huggins is one of the most recognizable head coaches in all of college basketball. With an extensive track record at Akron, Cincinnati, and West Virginia (one season at K-State as well), the “Huggy Bear” is well-known as an elite leader on the sidelines. He has not reached the Final Four since 2010 but is well-regarded by most of his peers and the media. Coach Huggins consistently seems to get the best out of his players and the same is occurring once again this season.

This is especially true with regard to his team’s defense. Although “Press Virginia” might be in the past, this roster still defends at an exceptionally high level. The Mountaineers currently rank fourth nationally in adjusted defensive efficiency and their only major flaw on this end is that they send opponents to the free-throw line at a high rate.

Unlike some seasons in the past, most of West Virginia’s talent lies in its frontcourt this year. That is evident as the team dominates the glass on both ends of the floor and also swats its fair share of shots. Additionally, Coach Huggins has adjusted his offensive scheme a bit to consistently pound the ball into the paint. Oscar Tshiebwe and Derek Culver are currently leading the team in scoring.

Through the first two months of the season, West Virginia holds a 12-2 (1-1 B12) record. The Mountaineers’ neutral-site wins over Ohio State and Wichita State look great on their resume as a Top 15 team nationally.