West Liberty University's men's basketball team, coming off a record-breaking season, is ready for the 2026-27 season under head coach Mike Lamberti. After clinching the Mountain East Conference (MEC) championships and a 27-5 record, the Hilltoppers will face tough competition starting with the Small College Basketball Hall of Fame Classic in Florida. This season will include a revamped 12-team MEC format and a 22-game conference schedule featuring home-and-away matchups against various programs. Significant non-conference highlights include the West Liberty Christmas Tournament, where they will face Nova Southeastern, led by former coach Jim Crutchfield. The season wraps up with the MEC Tournament in March and hopes for another NCAA Tournament appearance.

By the Numbers
  • West Liberty achieved a 27-5 record last season.
  • The team is making its 17th consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance.
  • West Liberty has accumulated 18 all-time NCAA Tournament berths.
State of Play
  • The Hilltoppers begin their season on Nov. 7 against Florida Southern.
  • The conference schedule will include 22 games among 12 teams, starting with Shawnee State on Dec. 2.
  • The NCAA Division II Atlantic Region Tournament is set for March 13-16.
What's Next

The Hilltoppers are primed to face intense competition early in the season, specifically at the Hall of Fame Classic. They aim for strong performances in both non-conference and conference play, which could impact postseason aspirations. If they maintain momentum, they could potentially extend their remarkable streak of NCAA appearances.

Bottom Line

West Liberty men's basketball is positioned for a competitive 2026-27 season, focusing on maintaining excellence and solidifying their status as a powerhouse in NCAA Division II. Their performance in the early season will be crucial for achieving their postseason goals.