West Virginia and AD Wren Baker are currently at work seeking to find the next leader as head coach of the men’s basketball program. We’re going to take a look at potential candidates over the next couple of weeks, or however long it takes. This series of “why and why not” will include any coach that has been linked to the WVU job in some form, realistic or not.

Niko Medved, Colorado State

Why

Niko Medved has shown more consistency than a few other potential WVU candidates during his time at Colorado State. Medved is preparing for the Rams’ First Four game vs. Virginia on Tuesday, their second NCAA Tournament appearance in six years. Medved has four 20-win seasons at CSU, appearing in the AP poll in multiple seasons.

Colorado State has a top-50 offense and defense, according to KenPom. WVU’s Baker emphasized that defense is key to building a winning program and Medved fits that criteria. The Rams started hot this season, beating then-No. 8 Creighton by 21 points in November. CSU started 13-1 but had their struggles in a very respected Mountain West Conference that has six NCAA Tournament bids.

Medved has been linked to other high-major jobs but it’s unknown if those schools will seriously consider him. His run at Colorado State is deserving of a Power-6 opportunity.

Medved also has a Morgantown connection. His wife is a West Virginia native and the two got married in the Morgantown Marriott at Waterfront Place over a decade ago.

Why Not

While Medved has shown consistency, you could say his whole career is underwhelming especially in March. Medved is looking for his first career NCAA Tournament win on Tuesday, just to get into the field of 68. Medved has won at Colorado State but has had a couple of under .500 seasons, and his only year at Drake was a 17-17 record.

It then asks the question could Medved win in the Big 12, which still adds Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado and Utah this summer. Could he quickly rebuild West Virginia’s program or will it take time? Also, could he do more at West Virginia while winning when it matters? Medved is a great coach with many questions.