Ross Hodge Predicts Jackson Fields to Make WVU Basketball Debut Sunday

After a seven-game wait, WVU basketball fans could get a first look at senior forward Jackson Fields Sunday when the team plays Mercyhurst, head coach Ross Hodge announced on his radio show Tuesday.

“Barring any last second setbacks, he’ll play Sunday. He was a full participant today and wasn’t subbing out much. He can play the four and the five, he gives us another athlete with versatility. He’s a very good vocal leader. He was our leading rebounder and shot blocker this offseason,” Hodge said.

Prior to the Backyard Brawl on Nov. 13, Hodge gave an update on Fields’ progression.

“He did partake for live scrimmaging for the first time on Friday,” Hodge said in the postgame press conference after defeating Lehigh. “It was with kind of some lower-minute guys and got in some simulated game and his next progression will be full practices and as, as that continues to unfold then he’ll get closer and closer. But he has participated in some live scrimmage situations.”

WVU basketball recently saw the season debut of fifth-year guard Chance Moore. Assuming Fields is good to go Sunday, it will be the first time WVU takes the floor at full strength this season.

Fields, a 6-foot-8 forward started 33 of 34 games played last season, averaging 7.9 points per game, the most out of his three seasons at Troy. He also had his best season in rebounds per game at 4.8.

Fields can stretch the floor as well, shooting 33.3% from three-point range and 32.4% on his career.

The Mountaineers come home after a two-game losing skid at the Shriner’s Children’s Charleston Classic, dropping to Clemson 70-67 and Xavier 78-68.

WVU basketball will take the court again at 3 p.m. on Sunday against Mercyhurst.

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