A Strategic Move for the Mountaineers
Evans Barning Jr., a 6‑7 forward who concluded his college eligibility without appearing for West Virginia in the 2025‑26 season, has agreed to continue his career at Navarro College for the 2026‑27 term. The announcement comes after the Mountaineers found themselves at full capacity following the return of Brenen Lorient, a move that left one scholarship slot vacant.
Barning’s journey to this point began in Toronto, where he honed his game at Archbishop Carroll High School before showcasing his abilities on the AAU circuit with Team Durant. In his senior year at Archbishop Carroll, he posted averages of 10.4 points and 6.3 rebounds per game, numbers that complemented his earlier AAU production of 8.8 points and 4.3 rebounds per contest.
The Path to Navarro College
Having reclassified academically and entered the recruitment cycle a year early, Barning was the final piece of West Virginia’s 2025 signing class. After a season spent on the sidelines, he elected to pursue a junior‑college route, citing the opportunity to regain playing time and develop his skill set at Navarro College, a program known for its competitive JUCO basketball environment.
Navarro College, located in Texas, will provide Barning with a platform to attract attention from four‑year institutions once again. The college’s official website lists a strong track record of player development, a factor that influenced the forward’s decision.
The ripple effect of his departure extends beyond roster logistics. By opening a scholarship spot, West Virginia can now explore additional options in the transfer market, while Barning joins a growing list of Canadian prospects who have leveraged the JUCO pathway to reach Division I programs.