Chester Frazier Opens Up About Deciding to Leave Illinois for WVU

After West Virginia hired Darian DeVries to take over as head coach of the WVU basketball program, the focus was then on who he would surround himself with on his staff. That’s where Chester Frazier comes in. But there was one question looming over Frazier joining DeVries’ staff – why would he leave Illinois for West Virginia?

Frazier, 38, who met with the media on Thursday for the first in a formal setting since being hired, explained why he left his alma mater to become DeVries’ associate head coach.

“Very appreciative of my time at Illinois, obviously my alma mater. We had a great run. Two championships in three years and an Elite Eight run,” said Frazier. I was looking for something to help me grow. Not to say I didn’t grow there, but having an opportunity to work with coach (Darian) DeVrires, who I regard as a really good basketball coach, an offensive mind. We’re a little more aligned offensively and defensively. And it’s closer to home for me.”

Frazier also expressed his gratitude for his experience at Illinois and his excitement to start a new chapter at WVU on social media when the news first broke.

“Onward and upward!!! No need for a graphic – Illini nation – staff – players – MUCH LOVE AND SUCCESS – we did great things!! Thank you!!! Time to hang more banners cut more nets and wear more rings!!! Leave a place better than you found it.. work starts now WVU!! Always GO ILLINI,” said Frazier.

Frazier brings a resume of success with him to West Virginia. Illinois made the NCAA Tournament every season with Frazier and also won a Big Ten regular season title in 2022 and enjoyed a Big Ten Tournament championship and a run to the Elite Eight in 2024.

Before coaching at Illinois, Frazier was on staff at Kansas State and Virginia Tech with Bruce Weber and Mike Young. Frazier has played a large part in recruiting throughout his coaching career, having ties within the DMV (Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia) area. Frazier is a native of Baltimore, Md.

For a related story, WVU basketball learned where they were picked to finish in the Big 12 preseason media poll.