đź“° What Really Happened in June 2023
1. The DUI Arrest
On June 16, 2023, Huggins was arrested in Pittsburgh after police found him in an SUV with a shredded tire and a blood alcohol level of 0.21%, more than double the legal limit .
2. University Announces Resignation
A day later, WVU released a statement saying Huggins “informed us of his intent to retire and has submitted his letter of resignation”—the school accepted it . He officially stepped aside on June 17, 2023, ending a 16-year tenure that included 11 NCAA Tournament appearances and a Final Four run in 2010 .
3. Huggins Disputes Resignation
In early July 2023, Huggins and his attorney claimed he never formally resigned—asserting WVU issued a “false statement” under his name . He pursued legal routes to reclaim the job, but WVU held firm, saying the resignation was valid and non-reversible .
4. Aftermath & Legal Resolution
Huggins entered a 12-month diversion program in August 2023, avoiding further prosecution if conditions were met . Meanwhile, WVU named interim coach Josh Eilert, followed by Darian DeVries, who coached the 2024–25 season.
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🎙 Why There’s No Re-Signing in 2025
WVU Stance: Athletic Director Wren Baker and President Gordon Gee have repeatedly said the university has moved beyond Huggins. No discussions of reinstatement have happened, and he is not under consideration .
Internal Sentiment: Reports from WV MetroNews in February 2024 stated there was “zero chance” Huggins would return. Board members and donors largely support looking forward rather than backward .
Legal Reality: No court ordered reinstatement. The diversion program resolved the DUI matter, but Huggins has not regained any official standing at WVU.
So, while Huggins briefly contested his departure, leading to high drama in summer 2023, there was no re-signing afterward. The program moved on.
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🎯 Why It Might Feel Like “Good News”
It’s easy to see why fans might hope for a Huggins comeback:
Hall of Fame Legacy: Inducted in 2022, he ranks third all-time in Division I wins and is deeply loved by Mountaineer Nation .
Alumni & Donor Support: Many longtime fans see the June 2023 events as out of character and rooted in personal struggles—not career-ending failures.
Huggins’ Own Wish: He expressed a desire to return after rehab (“…plans to remain in the rehab center … until cleared to return to … coaching duties”); his attorneys even threatened legal action for reinstatement .
Nonetheless, nothing in 2024–25 suggests WVU altered course. They’ve launched a full coaching search and hired DeVries. Barring a future dramatic change, Huggins is unlikely to be rehired.
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Timeline Recap: Key Dates
Date Event
June 16, 2023 DUI arrest in Pittsburgh (0.21% BAC)Â Â
June 17, 2023 WVU announces resignation; Huggins steps downÂ
Early July 2023 Huggins disputes resignation; cites legal contract requirementsÂ
August 2023 Enters diversion programÂ
Feb–Mar 2024 WVU officials rule out return; Huggins off candidate listsÂ
2024–25 season Darian DeVries hired; no Huggins reinstatement reported
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Final Word
Despite the drama of mid‑2023, the idea that Bob Huggins was “re‑signed” in 2025 is not correct. His departure in June 2023 ended a storied WVU tenure. While he briefly challenged that decision, the university maintained its stance, and alternative coaching leadership has taken the reins.
