Morgantown native and consensus Division 2 All-American KJ McClurg has recently entered the transfer portal, presenting an enticing prospect for new West Virginia men’s basketball coach Darian DeVries as he seeks to bolster his team’s roster for the upcoming season.
McClurg, who hails from Morgantown, made waves at NCAA Division 2 California (PA) before deciding to explore new opportunities in the transfer portal. Having initially played for Division 1 New Hampshire, McClurg returned to his hometown to represent University High School, where he garnered multiple all-state honors and contributed to a state championship win in 2019. With two seasons of eligibility remaining, McClurg’s impressive stats speak volumes about his talent, averaging 22.6 points and 5.4 rebounds per game this past season. His consistent scoring ability, shooting efficiency (53.4% from the field and 42.1% from beyond-the-arc), and leadership qualities made him a standout player, earning him recognition as a Division 2 All-American by both the Division II Conference Commissioner’s Association (D2CCA) and the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC).
Not only did McClurg excel on the court, but he also played a pivotal role in guiding his team to success, logging an average of 37.1 minutes per game and leading the Vulcans to a commendable 28-5 overall record, including an appearance in the Round of 32 in the NCAA Division 2 Men’s Basketball Tournament. His impact was so significant that opponents resorted to defensive strategies like the box-and-one to contain his scoring prowess, a testament to his influence on the game.
While McClurg’s collegiate journey has seen him transition from Division 1 to Division 2, his potential transfer to West Virginia University (WVU) presents an exciting opportunity. Despite no official contact between McClurg and WVU at present, the prospect of joining his local Division 1 program with his proven track record and versatile skill set makes for a compelling narrative. McClurg’s focus remains on finding the right fit and continuing his development, aligning with the evolving landscape of college basketball where roster changes are commonplace.
As McClurg navigates this pivotal moment in his career, his blend of local roots, Division 1 experience, and scoring prowess positions him as an intriguing prospect for WVU and other potential suitors as they seek to strengthen their squads for the upcoming season.
