In their season opener and the debut of new head coach Ross Hodge, West Virginia secured a 70-54 victory over Mount St. Mary’s despite significant struggles in several areas. WVU was dominated on the boards in the first half, being outrebounded 25-11, and also suffered from poor shooting, missing eight free throws and hitting only 5-of-18 three-pointers. However, Coach Hodge credited the team's "defensive activity" and ability to get deflections as the decisive factor, which compensated for the offensive shortcomings. This defense helped WVU turn a 25-22 deficit into a 35-29 halftime lead by forcing five turnovers in the final minutes of the half.
After being challenged by Hodge to start the second half strong, WVU never allowed Mount St. Mary’s to get closer than the six-point halftime deficit. Although MSM cut the lead to six with 6:23 remaining, West Virginia responded immediately with a 6-0 run and stifled the visitors defensively, allowing only one field goal in the final six minutes. The team was led by players familiar with Hodge’s system: Jasper Floyd matched his career-high with 25 points and five steals, while Brenen Lorient secured a double-double with 11 points and 13 rebounds, 10 of which came in the second half to help close the rebounding gap to 38-29 by the end. The defensive focus was evident in the final stats, as WVU forced 20 turnovers, committed only nine, and dominated fast-break points 19-6.