Bob Huggins Optimistic After Close Loss to Kansas, But Knows There’s Work to Do

WVU head coach Bob Huggins was very positive in his postgame radio interview with Tony Caridi. Huggins liked the way his team played at Allen Fieldhouse on Saturday as WVU lost by two points.

“I thought we played really well. We turned it over again too many times. I thought our guys really competed,” Huggins said. “I think we are getting better and better as the season goes on. I look forward to these next two games.”

Heading into the game, WVU was listed as Joe Lunardi’s “last four byes.” With the loss to Kansas, the Mountaineers will more than likely naturally fall to “last four in.” West Virginia did take Kansas to the final buzzer so the computer rankings will favor the Mountaineers in that category.

West Virginia is now 16-13 and 5-11 in Big 12 play. Huggins would argue that playing a top-5 strength of schedule should nullify the close win-loss record. The Basketball Hall of Fame coach knows the reality of what the NCAA Tournament committee is looking for though.

“We really need another win. We shouldn’t but we need another win,” Huggins said.

West Virginia will travel to play Iowa State in Ames on Monday night. Huggins doesn’t think his team is mentally exhausted and will move on from the loss.

“I think they’ll be alright. I think they know what’s at stake. I don’t know why the hell we need one more win,” Huggins said.