West Virginia Secures Future with Monster Contract Extension for Head Coach Ross Hodge
Morgantown, WV – In a resounding declaration of confidence and commitment, West Virginia University has officially inked men’s basketball head coach Ross Hodge to a substantial contract extension, cementing his long-term future with the Mountaineers. The five-year, $15 million deal, with potential for further extensions and significant incentives, signals the university’s belief that Hodge is the architect to lead the program back to national prominence.
The agreement, formally signed on March 26, 2025, sees Hodge, 44, receive an initial salary of $2.8 million for the upcoming season, with annual increases of $100,000, ultimately reaching $3.2 million in the final year of the five-year term (2029-30). Furthermore, an automatic extension clause could add a sixth year, bringing the total potential value to $18.3 million if specific performance benchmarks are met, including a top-six finish in the Big 12 or an NCAA Tournament appearance in his first two seasons.
This significant investment comes on the heels of Hodge’s impressive two-year stint as head coach at North Texas, where he compiled a 46-24 overall record, including a stellar 27-9 mark in his second season that culminated in an NIT semifinals appearance. Prior to his head coaching role, Hodge was widely recognized as the defensive mastermind behind North Texas’s success as an associate head coach, contributing to the nation’s No. 1 scoring defense in consecutive seasons (2021-22, 2022-23). His overall coaching record, including highly successful stints at the junior college level, boasts an astounding winning percentage of over 80%.
For West Virginia, this extension provides crucial stability after a period of coaching changes. Athletic Director Wren Baker, who worked with Hodge at North Texas, emphasized Hodge’s proven track record as a winner and his deep understanding of the college basketball landscape. The contract also includes a substantial buyout clause, particularly high in the initial years, demonstrating the university’s intent to keep Hodge in Morgantown.
The impact of this extension on West Virginia’s recruiting efforts cannot be overstated. With a secure future, Hodge can now leverage the strong brand power of West Virginia basketball, its passionate fanbase, and significant resources to attract top talent. He has already begun to reshape the roster through the transfer portal, focusing on defensive-minded players with length and elite guard play, indicating a clear vision for the program’s direction.
As Hodge begins his tenure, the expectations are clear: return West Virginia to the NCAA Tournament and ultimately contend for a national championship. With a robust contract, a supportive athletic department, and a strategic approach to roster building, Ross Hodge is well-positioned to embark on a transformative era for Mountaineer basketball. The “Monster Contract Extension” is more than just a financial agreement; it’s a statement of ambition and a vote of confidence in a coach poised to make a significant impact.
