Jay Bilas, WVU Coaching Staff Speak Out in Support for RaeQuan Battle

ESPN analyst Jay Bilas, as well as West Virginia’s coaching staff, showed support for WVU G RaeQuan Battle after he posted a video directed toward the NCAA on his transfer waiver. Battle went into detail about his mental health as well as his why he came to West Virginia, a question the NCAA was asking.

Battle is currently at a struggle with the NCAA over his transfer waiver. Battle is a multi-time transfer from Washington and Montana State but expresses issues with his mental health.

“There is no legitimate reason to deny a waiver to RaeQuan Battle. None,” Bilas wrote on X. “The NCAA set the conditions for the waiver, Battle met them, and it’s still denied. For what, NCAA? For what?!”

There is no legitimate reason to deny a waiver to @RaeQuanBattle. None. The NCAA set the conditions for the waiver, Battle met them, and it’s still denied. For what, NCAA? For what?! https://t.co/YAipu8WbVz

— Jay Bilas (@JayBilas) December 5, 2023

“The NCAA has already acknowledged my mental health ailment but they question why West Virginia. Now I hope you know why,” Battle said at the end of his two-minute video.

WVU interim HC Josh Eilert as well as other staff members showed their support to Battle on Tuesday.

Don’t go quietly. Proud of you @RaeQuanBattle! #HailWV https://t.co/4XfnFgRCi9

— Josh Eilert (@josheilert) December 5, 2023

When it comes to a wavier @RaeQuanBattle deserves to be allowed to compete! Just listen to his story.

So much out of his control and still did everything by the book.@NCAA time to the the right thing…LET HIM PLAY! https://t.co/9hA4VmJHiy

— J5 (@JordanMcCabe5) December 5, 2023

This is @RaeQuanBattle, this is his story. What he has endured and overcome to this get to this point is remarkable. Please support this incredible young man by sharing this. Love you Rae!!! https://t.co/1ZBCnnQ5oH

— Alex Ruoff (@ARuoff) December 5, 2023

This is @RaeQuanBattle story. It deserves to be heard. Proud of you Rae and will always love you!! https://t.co/EHROsHnNOo

— Trent Michaels (@TrentDMichaels) December 5, 2023

Let this man play ball! @NCAA https://t.co/BgBX6mRy3D

— Tyler Cheng (@tylercheng13) December 5, 2023

For now, Battle is ineligible for this year and can play in the 2024-25 season. Battle is potentially pursuing legal action as well. WV Sports Now will continue to provide updates on Battle’s waiver process.