Javon Small Leads West Virginia's Resurgence In Big 12

West Virginia guard Javon Small (7) drives past Kansas guard Zeke Mayo (5) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game, Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024, in Lawrence, Kan. West Virginia won 62-61(

Javon Small has emerged as a standout player for West Virginia, leading the Big 12 in scoring and playing a pivotal role in the team's resurgence this season. Despite being projected to finish near the bottom of the conference, West Virginia has defied expectations with a strong start, including a recent win against Kansas that propelled them back into the national rankings.

Small, who transferred to West Virginia after stints at East Carolina and Oklahoma State, has been a consistent force on the court. Averaging 19.5 points per game, he leads the Big 12 in scoring and has showcased his versatility with strong performances on both ends of the floor.

Coach Darian DeVries has praised Small's impact, highlighting his exceptional play and labeling him as one of the best guards in the country. Small's contributions have been crucial for a team that has faced challenges due to injuries to key players like Tucker DeVries and Jayden Stone.

Despite the setbacks, West Virginia has maintained a strong defensive presence, holding opponents to low scores in multiple games. Small emphasized the importance of communication on defense, underscoring the team's commitment to executing their game plan effectively.

West Virginia defies expectations with strong start in the season.

Javon Small is the leading scorer in the Big 12.

Small's versatility shines on both offense and defense.

Coach DeVries praises Small as one of the best guards nationally.

Injuries to key players challenge West Virginia's lineup.

While a recent loss to Arizona ended their winning streak, West Virginia remains focused on their goals for the season. Coach DeVries emphasized the need for consistency and physicality in their play, acknowledging the slim margin for error in a competitive conference.

With notable wins against ranked opponents and an improved win total compared to last season, West Virginia's turnaround under DeVries has garnered attention and respect from the college basketball community. Opposing coaches like Tommy Lloyd have commended the team's resilience and success despite facing adversity.

As West Virginia navigates the challenges of a demanding season, Small's leadership and performance will continue to be instrumental in their quest for success. With a strong foundation in place, the Mountaineers are poised to make a statement in the Big 12 and beyond.