West Virginia Mountaineers Basketball Returns for Final Non-Conference Tune-Up

The West Virginia Mountaineers basketball team plays its final non-conference game tonight. They host the Mississippi Valley State Delta Devils in Morgantown. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. EST at the WVU Coliseum.

This game concludes the team’s schedule before Big 12 conference play begins. It offers a final chance for adjustments against a struggling opponent. According to ESPN’s broadcast details, the game will stream live on ESPN+.

A Mismatch on Paper With Key Players to Watch

The records reveal a stark contrast between the teams. West Virginia enters the game with an 8-4 overall record. Mississippi Valley State sits at 1-11 for the season.

Analytics site KenPom ranks the Delta Devils last in all of Division I. This makes the Mountaineers heavy favorites. Sportsbooks like FanDuel list WVU as a 41.5-point favorite.

Despite the lopsided matchup, individual talent will be on display. Delta Devils guard Michael James averages 20.6 points per game. For West Virginia, center Harlan Obioha seeks to regain his early-season form.

Setting the Stage for the Grueling Big 12 Schedule

For West Virginia, this game is primarily about momentum. A strong performance can build confidence before facing nationally-ranked foes. The team needs to fine-tune its execution on both ends of the floor.

Fans will watch for improved ball movement and defensive intensity. The bench may also see extended minutes. This allows coaches to evaluate depth before the conference grind.

The outcome is expected, but the process matters more. How the Mountaineers play could signal their readiness for the challenges ahead. The real season begins after this holiday matchup.

Tonight’s contest is a critical final step for West Virginia Mountaineers basketball. A decisive win provides a springboard into the nation’s toughest conference. All eyes will be on Morgantown as the team prepares for the battles to come.

Info at your fingertips

How can I watch the West Virginia vs. Mississippi Valley State game?

The game is scheduled for a 7 p.m. EST tip-off on Monday, December 22nd. It will be broadcast exclusively on the ESPN+ streaming service.

Who is the best player on Mississippi Valley State?

Guard Michael James is the Delta Devils’ primary offensive threat. He is averaging over 20 points per game this season.

Why is West Virginia such a heavy favorite in this game?

Mississippi Valley State is statistically the lowest-ranked team in Division I per KenPom. West Virginia has a significantly stronger record and plays at home.

What is the point spread for tonight’s basketball game?

As of the latest odds, West Virginia is favored to win by 41.5 points. The over/under for total points scored is set at 137.5.

What does this game mean for West Virginia’s season?

This is the final non-conference game. A win provides momentum before the start of Big 12 conference play, which features many top-ranked teams.