Ross Hodge Discusses Cincinnati Matchup, Gives Update on Brenen Lorient

WVU basketball head coach Ross Hodge spoke to the media Monday to preview the team’s matchup against Cincinnati. However, he also gave an update on the status of senior forward Brenen Lorient, who missed the game against No. 3 Iowa State due to injury.

“He’s still in the concussion protocol,” Hodge said. “He’s progressing nicely and really is kind of like a step by step. He hasn’t had any setbacks. He’s been able to kind of meet his checkpoints and so at this point it’s just questionable would be the best way to, to list him.”

As for Cincinnati, Hodge had high praise for the Bearcats’ defense, emphasizing the team’s length in the front court which allows the guard to better focus on defending the three-point line. Cincinnati’s lineup features 7-foot-2 sophomore center Moustapha Thiam.

“They have one of the best three point defenses in the country. And a lot of that is kind of a byproduct of their size and versatility,” Hodge said. “And obviously their guards are good defensively, but it really is that, that combination of length and athleticism around the rim that makes it difficult.”

Part of Cincinnati’s defensive success has come from former Mountaineer junior guard Sincere Harris, who leads the team with 15 steals. When it comes to countering UC’s defense, Hodge mentioned moving the ball and making good decisions around the rim.

“You gotta be able to move the ball, which can be challenging because they’re not gonna let you move it, but you gotta try to get the ball side to side, get some reversals, get paint touches, and then ultimately you gotta make good rim decisions when you get into the paint,” Hodge added.

WVU basketball will play again at 7 p.m. on Jan. 6 at the Hope Coliseum when the Mountaineers host the Cincinnati Bearcats.

Find more coverage of WVU basketball and Ross Hodge at WV Sports Now.