In a strong offseason move, West Virginia University (WVU) basketball has added another key piece to its evolving roster with the commitment of former UTSA point guard Marcus Millender. The Mountaineers, under the guidance of interim head coach Josh Eilert, continue to reshape their team through the transfer portal, and the acquisition of Millender stands out as a promising addition.
Standing at 5-foot-11, Millender may not tower over his opponents, but what he lacks in size, he more than makes up for in heart, hustle, and skill. Known for his quick first step, court vision, and perimeter shooting, Millender will immediately inject energy and experience into the Mountaineers’ backcourt.
Millender’s basketball journey has been one marked by perseverance and steady development. Beginning his collegiate career at South Alabama, he made an immediate impact by leading his team in three-point shooting percentage and breaking the freshman record for assists. His strong freshman campaign turned heads and laid the foundation for his next steps in college basketball.
After transferring to UTSA, Millender continued to evolve his game. During his time with the Roadrunners, he embraced the role of a lead guard, refining his playmaking skills while continuing to be a scoring threat. He averaged solid numbers while showing his ability to control the pace of the game and create opportunities for his teammates.
One of the most notable moments in his UTSA career came during a game against Wichita State, where Millender came off the bench to score 21 points and lead his team to a significant 88-75 upset win. His poise under pressure and ability to take over the game were on full display, qualities that WVU fans will be eager to see in Morgantown.
For WVU, Millender fills an immediate need for a playmaking guard who can both score and facilitate. With multiple players entering the transfer portal and a transitional period underway for the program, the Mountaineers needed a steady presence in the backcourt. Millender’s leadership, maturity, and well-rounded game make him a perfect fit for this phase of the program.
Coach Eilert expressed confidence in the newest addition, noting Millender’s competitiveness and strong basketball IQ. “Marcus is the kind of player who brings toughness and experience. He’s not just a scorer—he understands how to run a team and make those around him better,” Eilert said in a recent statement.
Defensively, Millender is no slouch either. His lateral quickness and anticipation allow him to guard multiple positions on the perimeter. He’s often described by coaches and teammates as a relentless worker who prides himself on doing the little things that help teams win—an attitude that aligns perfectly with WVU’s blue-collar identity.
Looking Toward the Future
As WVU continues to rebuild and reload, Marcus Millender represents more than just a new face on the roster—he symbolizes a fresh start and a commitment to competitiveness in the always-challenging Big 12 Conference. His arrival bolsters a team hungry to prove itself amid change and transition.
Millender’s commitment marks the latest in what has been an aggressive push by the Mountaineers to reshape their roster through the portal. As the college basketball landscape evolves, programs like WVU are adapting quickly, using the transfer market to remain relevant and competitive.
With Marcus Millender now in the fold, Mountaineer Nation has one more reason to look forward to the season ahead. His leadership, versatility, and proven production could very well make him one of the most impactful newcomers in the conference.
Leave a Reply