A New Chapter for the Mountaineers
The West Virginia women's basketball team is coming off one of the most successful seasons in program history, a milestone that has infused the roster with confidence and a clear sense of purpose as they prepare for the 2026 schedule.
Guided by head coach Mark Kellogg, who has posted at least 25 wins in each of his first three seasons, the Mountaineers are poised to build on that momentum. Kellogg's ability to extract performance from limited lineups was on full display when the team rallied from a halftime deficit with only five players available, a feat that earned them the nickname "The Greenbrier Five."
Opening at a Neutral Site
The team will open its 2026 campaign at The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, on Friday, November 13. The neutral‑court setting adds a unique backdrop to the matchup against the Northwestern Wildcats.
Northwestern, which finished the previous season with an 8‑21 record, has brought in former Princeton head coach Carla Berube, a strategist who previously turned the Tigers into a consistent winner. The new-look Wildcats will test the Mountaineers' resolve on this neutral ground.
Roster Moves and Expectations
Guard Gia Cooke stands as the only returning player who logged significant minutes last season, giving the team a familiar anchor. In addition, the Mountaineers have added Marquette forward Skylar Forbes and Duquesne guard Alexis Bordas through the transfer portal, bolstering depth and versatility.
The ultimate ambition is clear: return to the NCAA Tournament and contend for the Big 12 Conference title. With a strong recent pedigree and a coaching staff that consistently extracts wins, the program believes the goal is within reach.