Josh Eilert Thinks NCAA Will ‘Do Right’ About RaeQuan Battle’s Waiver

WVU interim HC Josh Eilert completed his Big 12 media day session on Wednesday afternoon in Kansas City, Mo. Eilert commented once again about current guard RaeQuan Battle and his waiver to ESPN analyst Fran Fraschilla.

“Certainly we have the RaeQuan Battle waiver looming over our head. I really think that the NCAA is going to do right by him and he’s going to get that,” Eilert said. “So I cross my fingers and I think that’s going to happen.”

Eilert and his staff are still waiting on the NCAA to give a decision on whether or not Battle is eligible to compete in the 2023-24 season. Battle transferred to West Virginia this past spring, which was his second time transferring as an undergraduate student. West Virginia’s staff has been working with the NCAA over the past month to provide any additional information on Battle’s situation that they may need. Over the past few weeks, Eilert has provided any update he can possibly give.

Eilert has shown concern about the waiver and how it affects his team during his trial run as head coach but he’s also worried about keeping the game of basketball with Battle.

“Worst case scenario is that he doesn’t get it, we have to do what’s best for RaeQuan. We are going to keep him involved in everything we do. Keep our thumb on him in terms of getting better each and every day, staying locked in,” Eilert said last week. “I worry about that for RaeQuan because he does really need basketball in his life. I’ve touched on his story a little bit, I don’t want to get into it.”

Bock: Analyzing West Virginia With and Without RaeQuan Battle

In recent waiver news, Cincinnati big men Aziz Bandaogo and Jamille Reynolds were both denied last week, according to HC Wes Miller. Both transfers made the move to UC this offseason but have transferred multiple times in their collegiate careers. Miller and his staff are appealing the decision and are confident the NCAA will change their minds.

WV Sports Now will continue to provide updates on Battle’s waiver.

Caught up with WVU head coach Josh Eilert a couple moments ago.

I asked about an update on 5th year guard RaeQuan Battle’s waiver claim with the NCAA.

Below is what Eilert had to say following back up on the waiver process. pic.twitter.com/mzEYXzbOUr

— Neil Meyer (@MeyerNeil6) October 18, 2023