Departure and Roster Implications
Evans Barning Jr., a redshirt freshman forward who originally committed to West Virginia University in 2025, has announced his move to Navarro College in Corsicana, Texas, where he will compete in the Southwest Junior College Conference.
Barning’s departure leaves the Mountaineers with just 13 scholarship players, a situation that could change if Brenan Lorient, a key front‑court prospect, decides to return to the program.
The 6‑foot‑7 athlete from Toronto built his high school résumé at Archbishop Carroll High in Washington, D.C., where he averaged 10.4 points and 6.3 rebounds per game, earning a spot on Team Durant’s Nike EYBL circuit before joining WVU’s summer practices.
Recruiting to Fill the Gap
With the roster depleted, WVU’s coaching staff is actively scouting the transfer portal and incoming freshmen to replace Barning’s contributions. Names such as Keyshawn Hall and Jelani McKoy have surfaced as potential additions, while the program also eyes immediate impact players who can adapt to the Big 12 style of play.
The 2026‑27 campaign will open at home against Niagara on November 2, a matchup that will test the team’s depth early in the schedule and set the tone for a season that promises both uncertainty and optimism.