WVU’s Josh Eilert on Potential Extension in Backyard Brawl: ‘Those Conversations Are Being Had’

WVU interim HC Josh Eilert previewed the Backyard Brawl with Pitt and discussed a potential extension in the basketball series. WVU and Pitt will play in Morgantown on Wednesday for the final game of their modified six-game revival.

“I think it’s good for both teams. It’s a good rivalry to continue on regardless, especially from a business perspective,” Eilert said on Tuesday. “How can you not think that’s good for both programs? So yeah, the conversations are being had between them and I fully anticipate coming to an agreement and extending this. It’s not on paper by any means but those conversations are being had.”

West Virginia and Pitt extended an original four-game series for another two years after COVID-19 ruined the 2020-21 edition of the brawl. The Mountaineers have won all five matchups of the recent series, six in a row dating back to 2012.

“It’s worked well in our favor this far and I think it’s good for both programs,” Eilert added.

During Eilert’s introductory press conference back in June, West Virginia AD Wren Baker was asked about extending the series. Baker mentioned he has been in conversations with Pitt AD Heather Lyke.

“We would extend in pretty much every sport in our series with Pitt,” Baker said. “It’s a great rivalry, a great series, draws well for both. So, I think it makes a ton of sense. I’m for continuing the series.”

West Virginia (3-4) and Pitt (5-3) will meet in the 190th edition of the Backyard Brawl in Morgantown on Wednesday with a 9 p.m. tip-off on ESPN2.