WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. – West Liberty University announced today that Head Men's Basketball Coach Ben Howlett is stepping down to pursue a new professional opportunity. A former standout player and long-time assistant coach for the Hilltoppers, Howlett has led the program since 2017, establishing himself as one of the most successful coaches in program history.
During his eight-season tenure, Howlett compiled an extraordinary 217–37 record, becoming the fastest coach in school history to reach 200 career wins. Under his leadership, the Hilltoppers captured eight consecutive Mountain East Conference (MEC) regular-season championships, made multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, and reached the pinnacle of the sport with a national championship game appearance in 2023.
Howlett's commitment to excellence extended beyond team success. His players consistently earned individual honors, including All-MEC and All-Atlantic Region accolades. His coaching achievements were also widely recognized, earning him MEC Coach of the Year honors three times (2018, 2022, 2025) and Atlantic District Coach of the Year in 2025.
"It has been an incredible honor to lead the Hilltopper basketball program," said Howlett. "I am deeply grateful to the players, staff, and all of TopperNation who have supported me throughout my tenure. I look forward to the next chapter in my career and am excited about the future of West Liberty basketball."
West Liberty University Director of Athletics Brad Forshey praised Howlett's impact on the university and the basketball program:
"Ben Howlett has been a pillar of excellence and loyalty for West Liberty University. His unwavering commitment to our student-athletes, the program, and the Hilltopper community has elevated West Liberty basketball to national prominence. We are deeply grateful for all he has accomplished during his time here and thank him for the passion, integrity, and relentless work ethic he brought every single day. We wish Ben and his family nothing but continued success in his next chapter—he will always be a part of the Hilltopper family.
As we look ahead, we will immediately begin a national search for our next head coach and plan to act swiftly. We are confident that the tradition of success that defines West Liberty basketball will not only continue, but grow stronger."
The university will launch a national search for its next head men's basketball coach. In the interim, Assistant Coaches Bryce Butler and Aaron Huffman will oversee day-to-day operations of the program.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Scott Nolte
Sports Information Director
West Liberty University
wlusportsinfo@westliberty.edu | 304-336-8200
