For the first time since 2017 we are able to use the term ‘undefeated’ in conjunction with the WVU men’s basketball team.

After upending the Akron Zips 94-84 the young Mountaineers now face off with the most hated of foes.

Pitt.

When we play Pitt in any sport, like most Mountaineers, I’m reminded of a quote from Jack Fleming’s mom.

Despite the delusion that most Pitt fans would like to immerse you in, West Virginia leads the all-time series 98-88. Last season’s edition of the hardwood Backyard Brawl saw Sagaba Konate give his last memorable performance as a Mountaineer, scoring 16 points, grabbing seven boards and blocking a whopping seven shots en route to a Mountaineer victory.

This season sees the Mountaineers making the long trip to Pittsburgh to take on Jeff Capel and the Panthers in his second season as head coach.

WHEN/ WHERE

Date: Friday, November 15

Tip-off Time: 7:00 PM ET/ 8:00 PM CT

Where: Peterson Events Center - Pittsburgh, PA (It Sucks)

Tickets: PittsburghPanthers.com

WATCH/ LISTEN

TV: ESPNU

Streaming Video: WatchESPN with a valid cable subscription

Radio: WZST Variety 101 (100.9 FM in Morgantown) or the Mountaineer Sports Network from IMG (Radio Affiliates)

Streaming Audio: Locate the Mountaineer Sports Network from IMG on TuneIn Radio (or the TuneIn Radio app for smartphones)

Satellite Radio: SiriusXM 199 (WVU), 193 (Pitt)

THE ENEMY

Where are they from? Pittsburgh, PA

Series History: WVU leads 98-88

Last Time: WVU 69, Pitt 59 - December 8, 2018

Record: 2-1

Head Coach: Jeff Capel (15-19, 190-129, one scandal)

Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports

KEYS TO THE GAME:

Pitt has three guards that combine to average 42 points per game. Ryan Murphy (17), Trey McGowans (15), Xavier Johnson (10). West Virginia has to guard better in the back court this week. They allowed Akron’s three guards to score 47 points.

The Mountaineers have the advantage under the basket. Derek Culver has to shoot better from the field and Oscar has to rebound and stay in the game.

Culver was a force but has to slow down and make shots close to the basket. Oscar will do Oscar things if he can stay on the floor and avoid fouls and Coach Huggins ire.

HOW AFRAID SHOULD WE BE (ON A SCALE OF 1-10)

6 - Pitt is hard to predict but has an excellent back court. Their front court weakness should allow the Mountaineers to win this one, giving the Mountaineers the first four game winning streak since Bob Huggins played guard in Morgantown.

PREDICTION THAT WILL BE WRONG

Oscar and Jordan McCabe will be in Huggins dog house again.

West Virginia 90, Pitt 75