Eligibility reshapes the roster
West Virginia University is poised to fill its lone scholarship slot for the 2026‑27 men’s basketball campaign, and the name on the shortlist is Brenen Lorient. The sophomore forward has yet to ink a professional contract in the United States or overseas, leaving the Mountaineers with a rare opportunity to retain a talent that could tip the balance.
The NCAA’s new age‑based eligibility model permits student‑athletes to spread five seasons across a five‑year window, but the recent temporary injunction from an Ohio court that grants an extra year to fifteen players adds a wrinkle. Lorient, who exhausted his eligibility in 2025‑26, could potentially take advantage of that ruling, a move that would keep him in Morgantown for another season.
Should Lorient return, the coaching staff expects an immediate boost across every position. The projected depth chart lists Miles Sadler and Martin Somerville as the primary point guards, while Finley Bizjack, Keonte Greybear and MJ Feenane are slated to handle shooting guard duties. Bizjack is expected to log heavy minutes, and the forward spots will be anchored by Lorient alongside Javan Buchanan, who is still awaiting an NCAA waiver.
In the paint, the center group featuring Mouhamed Sylla, Amadou Seini and Aliou Dioum brings size, length and athleticism, while Seydou Traore is projected to be a defensive anchor. The overall depth chart would therefore become markedly deeper, giving the Mountaineers flexibility in rotations and matchup planning.
The ripple effect extends beyond the roster. A stronger lineup not only improves on‑court performance but also enhances recruiting narratives, showing prospective players that WVU can adapt to evolving eligibility rules while maintaining a competitive edge.