Get ready to witness a basketball prodigy take on the Big 12 – Treysen Eaglestaff is about to redefine what it means to dominate on the court. This 6-foot-6, 190-pound sharpshooter from North Dakota is no stranger to making headlines, having dropped 51 points in a single game last season. But here’s where it gets intriguing: despite his scoring prowess, Eaglestaff’s journey to West Virginia University (WVU) is as much about growth as it is about glory. After a life-changing conversation with his former coach, Paul Sather, Eaglestaff realized that winning isn’t just about scoring—it’s about the little things, like boxing out and playing with maturity. And this is the part most people miss: his transfer to WVU isn’t just a career move; it’s a testament to his evolution as a player and a person.
Eaglestaff’s rise to prominence is nothing short of remarkable. Hailing from Bismarck, North Dakota, a state not exactly known for producing high-major basketball talent, he became a top target for elite programs after entering the transfer portal. ‘It was a childhood dream come true,’ he admits, reflecting on the flood of calls from prestigious coaches. But what sealed the deal for WVU? Coach Ross Hodge’s emphasis on trust and support during tough times. ‘When times get hard, they stick with you,’ Eaglestaff recalls, a sentiment that resonated deeply. Controversially, some might argue that loyalty in college sports is a rarity—what do you think?
Before committing to WVU, Eaglestaff dipped his toes into NBA waters, working out with the Washington Wizards and Portland Trail Blazers. ‘It was a wake-up call,’ he says, surprised by how well he held his own against top talent. Yet, he chose to withdraw from the draft, opting instead to refine his game in the Big 12, a conference notorious for its physicality. ‘Coach Hodge is pushing me to be more physical,’ Eaglestaff explains, acknowledging the league’s demanding nature. This transition isn’t just about basketball; it’s about adapting to a new environment, including Morgantown’s infamous hills, which he humorously compares to a roller coaster.
At WVU, Eaglestaff joins a seasoned roster, potentially forming an all-senior starting lineup. He’s quick to praise his teammates, from point guard Jasper Floyd’s precision to Brenen Lorient’s athleticism and Honor Huff’s sharpshooting. And let’s not forget Harlan Obioha, the 7-foot powerhouse whose work ethic pushes Eaglestaff to new heights. Together, they’re not just a team—they’re a force to be reckoned with.
But here’s the burning question: Can Eaglestaff’s scoring brilliance translate to success in the Big 12? While his 84 three-pointers last season (35.9% accuracy) are impressive, the league’s physicality demands more than just shooting. Coach Hodge is working to strike a balance, encouraging aggression without recklessness. ‘We’re finding that happy medium,’ he notes. Is Eaglestaff the missing piece WVU needs, or will the Big 12’s intensity prove too much?
As Eaglestaff prepares for this new chapter, one thing is clear: his journey from North Dakota’s flatlands to the rugged courts of the Big 12 is more than a transfer—it’s a transformation. Will he rise to the challenge? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure: Treysen Eaglestaff is a name you’ll want to remember. What’s your take? Do you think he’ll thrive in the Big 12, or will the competition be his downfall? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
