UPDATED: WVU Basketball’s Jose Perez no longer part of the team

MORGANTOWN, W.Va (WDTV) - UPDATE: Jose Perez has issued a response via social media to WVU’s statement.

“Gave me your word to comeback, I went to bat for you in all meetings went behind the scenes to get recruits recruited/hosted every player since I’ve been here then got thrown to the street like a dead animal ... 25 years old as a grad student in undergrad classes after I graduated never accepted being put in undergrad classes but people wanted me eligible, only disagreement was not going to study hall and that’s where the decision was made nowhere else. Literally nowhere to go don’t make it seem like I’m the bad person cause I truly wanted to play here and was one of the reasons I came back because the “boss” gave me his word he would have my best interest now I am once again entering a phase of depression and I can’t play the sport I love it’s been 2 years since I suited up and still decided to comeback ... good luck wish nothing but the best to mountaineer nation ...
- Jose Perez

Perez’s statement alludes that academic issues were the reason for the separation from the team.

Original story below.

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Unexpected news from Morgantown today, as WVU Basketball announces that the program and Jose Perez have parted ways.

“We wish Jose the best in his future endeavors,” said interim head coach Josh Eilert in a release.

No further information has been released as to why Perez is no longer part of the team.

This adds to a turbulent summer for WVU Basketball and Perez’s status with the team.

Perez initially transferred to WVU from Manhatten in 2022, but was not allowed to play last year, having to sit out for the season as mandated by the NCAA.

After Bob Huggins resigned from the program, Perez entered the transfer portal, but returned to Morgantown after exploring other options.

Now, his departure seems permanent after tonight’s news.

Perez averaged 18.9 PPG when he last played (2021-22 season for Manhatten).