If there’s one newcomer on West Virginia’s basketball roster that has exceeded expectations so far in the season, it’s Brenan Lorient. Read more: Brenen Lorient leading the way in WVU’s front court
The North Texas transfer has already gone off for 26 points in WVU’s previous matchup against Lehigh. It’s not just the sheer amount of points he has put up so far that’s impressive, it’s the different ways that he has been able to put the ball in the basket.
In just three games, it looks like Lorient is going to be a key contributor in the Mountaineers’ front court.
Who is Lorient?
Lorient is a senior who transferred from North Texas, opting to follow head coach Ross Hodge. The 6-foot-9, 215-pound forward is originally from Ocala, Florida.
While at North Texas, Lorient proved to be a capable contributor to a team that was just a few games away from winning an American Athletic Conference championship. Last year, he averaged 11.7 points and 4.9 rebounds per game. He also played in all 36 games.
The Florida native also showed that he can be a disruptive force on the defensive end. He recorded 39 blocks off the bench, which was good enough for first on the team and sixth in the nation.
Lorient also had 178 rebounds off the bench, which was the fourth-best in the country. All of this allowed him to be named to the American Athletic Conference First Team All-Conference team and AAC Sixth Man of the Year.
Before North Texas, Lorient also spent two seasons at Florida Atlantic University. In 2023, he helped the Owls make an improbable Cinderella run to the Final Four.
What’s been impressive so far?
While the season is still young, Lorient has already showcased that he’s taken a significant step from last season.
Just look at WVU’s most recent game against Lehigh. Lorient led the team with 26 points, while also adding seven rebounds. He missed just four shots from the field, including making three of his four three-pointers.
Of the 11 shots he made, Lorient was getting it done in a multitude of ways. Whether it be with an impressive back-to-the-basket move, or shooting it with no hesitation from behind the arc. Against Lehigh, he demonstrated that he is more than capable of being a three-level scorer.
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What’s also been impressive about his game is his athleticism. Lorient has already snatched 29 rebounds in just the first three games. He’s also blocked six shots and recorded five steals.
Not only is he putting up the stats to back it up, but he’s also getting it done in numbers you can’t necessarily track. If you watch closely, you can see how quickly he runs up and down the court. He’s also always one of the first players willing to box someone out.
Lorient is getting it done on both ends of the court. He’s been a defensive force while showcasing the ability to be a consistent threat in the offense.
What has shocked me the most is just how pure his shooting stroke is. It never looks awkward or forced when he takes a shot. You can tell that he has confidence in that part of his game, and when he gets going, it’s tough to slow down.
What Coach Hodge has said
Here’s a quote from head coach Ross Hodge talking about Lorient’s evolution as a scorer after his breakout game against Lehigh.
“He’s unselfish and makes the right plays. If he catches the ball and he’s not open, he won’t force it. When it’s working, it’s on us as a coaching staff to get him more catch-and-shoot opportunities,” Hodge said.
Who he reminds me of
With his long arms, disruptive nature on defense, and the ability to hit the deep ball, Lorient brings back shades of former WVU player Wesley Harris. Just like Harris, Lorient can create havoc on the defensive end, while still being a key piece to the offense.
MVP so far
You can make the case for Honor Huff. Or even Jasper Floyd. However, I would have to say that Lorient is the MVP so far in the early part of the season.
He has already established himself as being much-improved compared to prior seasons. If he can continue to do what he did against Lehigh, Lorient will help take WVU back to the NCAA tournament.
