It sounds like you’re referencing a hypothetical or developing story about West Virginia basketball boosters being upset over the hiring of coach Ross Hodge, with potential ramifications for Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) funding being redirected toward football. Below is a possible take on the situation:
West Virginia Basketball Boosters Furious Over Ross Hodge Hiring, Threaten to Shift NIL Funds to Football
Morgantown, WV – Tensions are rising within West Virginia’s athletic donor base following the hiring of new men’s basketball coach **Ross Hodge**, with prominent boosters reportedly **furious** over the decision and threatening to divert crucial **NIL resources** to football instead.
Hodge, who previously served as head coach at **North Texas**, was announced as the Mountaineers’ new leader after a prolonged coaching search. However, many within the WVU basketball community **wanted a bigger name** to replace interim coach **Josh Eilert**, and some boosters believe the administration settled for a mid-major hire rather than pursuing a high-profile candidate.
#### **Boosters React: “This Was a Cheap Move”**
According to sources close to the program, several major donors **expressed immediate frustration** with the hire, arguing that Hodge lacks the pedigree to compete in the **tough Big 12 Conference**. One booster reportedly texted:
*”This was a cheap move. If they’re not serious about basketball, why should we be? Football is where the money’s going now.”*
With NIL collectives like **Country Roads Trust** playing a massive role in WVU athletics, there are now concerns that basketball’s funding could take a major hit. Football, led by **Neal Brown**, has been gaining momentum, and disgruntled boosters may **prioritize NIL deals for football recruits** over supporting the basketball program.
#### **What This Means for WVU Hoops**
If boosters follow through on their threats, Hodge could face an uphill battle in rebuilding the roster. The transfer portal is **NIL-driven**, and without competitive offers, WVU may struggle to attract top talent. Meanwhile, football could see an **influx of donor support**, further widening the resource gap between the two programs.
Mountaineer fans are now left wondering: **Did West Virginia just make a coaching mistake that could set basketball back for years?** And will football reap the benefits of frustrated boosters opening their wallets elsewhere?
