WVU Sees Pace Rise After Kriisa, Farrakhan, Battle Return

WVU Basketball has seen an increase in pace since returning guards Kerr Kriisa, Noah Farrakhan and RaeQuan Battle to the floor. West Virginia has only won one game since the trio’s return but is averaging 77.5 points in the last four games.

Before the UMass game on Dec. 16, West Virginia’s adjusted tempo ranking was No. 302 in the country, according to KenPom. Now, on Jan. 4, WVU’s adjusted tempo ranking is No. 198 in the country, an increase of 104 in just two-and-a-half weeks.

Offensive averages since Kriisa/Farrakhan/Battle returns:

Points: 77.5

FG: 43.5%

3FG: 23.8%

AST: 15.0

TO: 9.8

Since taking over the program in June, interim HC Josh Eilert has wanted to play at a fast pace. With only eight players available at the beginning of the season, Eilert was forced to play slow with the offense running through Kobe Johnson, Quinn Slazinski and Edwards.

Battle has led West Virginia’s offense the past two weeks, scoring over 24 points in three-straight contests. Battle won back-to-back Big 12 Player of the Week awards and has the chance to reach the all-conference team this season.

ROCKED THE RIM‼️ @RaeQuanBattle pic.twitter.com/0S3iF01zXN

— WVU Men's Basketball (@WVUhoops) December 31, 2023

Farrakhan is averaging 15.5 points on 54% shooting. Kriisa is averaging 7.0 assists and 2.8 turnovers per game, resulting in a 2.54 assist-to-turnover ratio.

Spin it 🌀 @_4seazonz pic.twitter.com/uMDHVL2tGi

— WVU Men's Basketball (@WVUhoops) December 31, 2023

West Virginia’s new-look offense will be tested on the road against No. 3 Houston as the Cougars have shown elite defense so far this season. UH has held the majority of their opponents under 60 points, with only three teams eclipsing that mark.