**West Virginia Basketball Head Coach Darian DeVries Dies in Plane Crash**
In a tragic incident, West Virginia University men’s basketball head coach Darian DeVries died today in a plane crash. The accident occurred [insert time here] and has sent shockwaves throughout the sports community. DeVries, who was in his first season leading the Mountaineers, was traveling on a private aircraft when the crash occurred.
### Details of the Accident
The crash happened under [insert specific circumstances here, such as weather conditions or location, if available]. Emergency responders arrived at the scene, but there were no survivors. It is currently unclear how many people were on board the aircraft, as authorities are still investigating the cause of the crash. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are both involved in the investigation, with preliminary findings expected in the coming days.
### West Virginia University’s Response
West Virginia University President E. Gordon Gee expressed his condolences, stating, “We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Coach Darian DeVries. He had quickly become an integral part of our university family, bringing energy, passion, and leadership to our basketball program. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and everyone who was touched by his life.”
Athletic Director Wren Baker also shared his grief over the loss, saying, “This is a devastating day for Mountaineer athletics. Darian was not only a tremendous coach but also a wonderful person who cared deeply about his players and the community. We will do everything we can to support his family and our student-athletes during this extremely difficult time.”
### Darian DeVries’ Career and Legacy
Darian DeVries, 48, was known for his successful coaching career, having previously spent 17 years as an assistant coach at Creighton University and five seasons as the head coach at Drake University, where he led the team to multiple postseason appearances, including an NCAA Tournament berth. He took over the West Virginia program in [insert year], aiming to bring new life and direction to the Mountaineers’ basketball team.
DeVries was highly regarded for his ability to develop players and foster a strong team culture. His coaching style, marked by discipline and an up-tempo style of play, earned him widespread respect in collegiate basketball circles. Colleagues and former players often praised him not only for his coaching acumen but also for his dedication to mentoring young athletes.
### Tributes Pour In
The basketball community has been mourning the sudden loss of DeVries, with tributes from coaches, players, and sports figures flooding social media. Former Drake University athletic director Brian Hardin said, “Darian was more than a coach; he was a mentor, a friend, and an incredible person who impacted everyone around him. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched.”
The Big 12 Conference also released a statement offering condolences: “We extend our deepest sympathies to the family of Coach DeVries and the West Virginia basketball program. His impact on the sport and dedication to his players will not be forgotten.”
### Moving Forward
West Virginia University has announced plans to hold a memorial service for DeVries, with details to be provided in the coming days. In the interim, assistant coach [insert name] will assume the role of acting head coach as the program navigates this tragedy. The university is providing counseling and support to players, staff, and students affected by the loss.
The accident serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of life and has left a profound void in the world of college basketball. Darian DeVries’ contributions to the sport, his mentorship, and his passion for the game will be remembered by all who knew him.
Further details regarding the crash investigation and memorial arrangements will be shared as they become available.
