Event Preview
Overview
The West Virginia Mountaineers and the Wake Forest Demon Deacons are set to face off in the 2025 Holiday Hoopfest on Saturday, December 6, at 6:00 PM EST. The game will take place at the Charleston Coliseum in Charleston, West Virginia. This matchup is part of a two-year neutral-site series between the two programs, with the return game scheduled for the 2026-2027 season in Greensboro, North Carolina. (wvusports.com) Both teams enter the game with identical 6-2 records, making this an exciting early-season contest. (espn.com)
Season Snapshot
West Virginia Mountaineers
The Mountaineers have demonstrated a strong start to the season, boasting a 6-2 record. Their most recent victory was a decisive 91-49 win over Coppin State on December 3, where Chance Moore and Honor Huff each scored 17 points. (reuters.com) West Virginia's offense has been averaging 71.1 points per game, while their defense has allowed 57.5 points per game. (espn.com)
Wake Forest Demon Deacons
Similarly, the Demon Deacons hold a 6-2 record. They are coming off a 86-68 loss to Oklahoma on December 2, where Juke Harris led the team with 22 points. (foxsports.com) Wake Forest has been averaging 87.4 points per game offensively and allowing 71.9 points per game defensively. (espn.com)
Recent Form
Both teams have shown resilience in their recent games. West Virginia overcame an early deficit to secure a commanding victory over Coppin State, highlighting their ability to adjust and dominate. (reuters.com) Wake Forest, despite the loss to Oklahoma, has been a high-scoring team, indicating a potent offense that can challenge any defense. (foxsports.com)
Talking Points
- Neutral-Site Dynamics: How will playing on a neutral court affect the performance of both teams?
- Offensive Firepower: Can Wake Forest's high-scoring offense overpower West Virginia's defense?
- Defensive Strategies: What defensive adjustments will West Virginia make to contain Wake Forest's key players?
- Player Matchups: Which individual player performances will be pivotal in determining the game's outcome?
- Coaching Decisions: How will the coaching strategies of Ross Hodge and Steve Forbes influence the game's tempo and style?
Players to Watch
- Juke Harris (Wake Forest): A dynamic guard leading the team with 19.9 points per game and 7.1 rebounds per game. (foxsports.com)
- Honor Huff (West Virginia): A key contributor for the Mountaineers, averaging 15.8 points per game. (foxsports.com)
- Jackson Fields (Wake Forest): Since returning from a wrist injury, Fields has added depth to the Demon Deacons' lineup, contributing 18 points and seven rebounds in his two appearances. (wvusports.com)
- Chance Moore (West Virginia): Scored 17 points in the recent win over Coppin State, showcasing his scoring ability. (reuters.com)
- Treysen Eaglestaff (West Virginia): Contributed 11 points and eight rebounds in the same game, highlighting his presence in the paint. (reuters.com)
Key Matchups & Storylines
- Guard Play: The battle between Juke Harris and Honor Huff will be crucial, as both are primary scoring options for their respective teams.
- Frontcourt Presence: The performance of Jackson Fields and Treysen Eaglestaff in the paint could tip the scales, especially in rebounding and interior defense.
- Coaching Strategies: Ross Hodge's defensive schemes against Steve Forbes' high-paced offense will be a focal point.
- Neutral Court Advantage: With the game being played in Charleston, West Virginia, the Mountaineers may have a slight home-court advantage, but Wake Forest's experience in neutral-site games could mitigate this.
Fun Facts
- This game marks the 11th all-time meeting between West Virginia and Wake Forest, with the Mountaineers leading the series 7-3. (wvusports.com)
- The last encounter between the two teams was a thrilling double-overtime game in the 2005 NCAA Tournament, where West Virginia emerged victorious. (wvusports.com)
- Charleston Coliseum has previously hosted several West Virginia University games, including the annual Capital Classic rivalry against Marshall University from 1989 to 2015. (en.wikipedia.org)
Things to Chirp About
- "Can West Virginia's defense contain Wake Forest's high-scoring offense?"
- "Will Juke Harris continue his impressive scoring streak against the Mountaineers?"
- "How will the neutral-site setting impact the game's atmosphere and outcome?"
- "Which team's bench will step up to make a significant impact in this matchup?"
Prediction
This matchup promises to be a closely contested game, with both teams showcasing potent offenses and solid defenses. While West Virginia's home-state advantage in Charleston may provide a slight edge, Wake Forest's high-scoring capabilities and recent performances suggest they could secure a narrow victory. Fans can expect an exciting and competitive game as both teams vie for early-season momentum.