WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — West Liberty University men's basketball head coach Mike Lamberti has been selected as one of Silver Waves Media's Top 50 Most Impactful NCAA Division II Men's Basketball Head Coaches.

The official list recognizes coaches for their leadership, sustained success and meaningful impact on their student-athletes, programs and the NCAA Division II basketball community.

Lamberti is among a distinguished group of coaches representing programs from across the country. The list includes several coaches from the Mountain East Conference, including Fairmont State's Dan Mondragon, Glenville State's Bob Bolen and Charleston's James Long.

The recognition comes as Lamberti begins his second season leading the Hilltoppers, who opened the 2026-27 campaign ranked No. 4 nationally in the National Association of Basketball Coaches Division II poll.

West Liberty opened the season 1-1 at the Small College Basketball tournament in Lakeland, Florida, falling to Florida Southern before bouncing back with a 91-85 victory over No. 2-ranked Washburn. The win over the Ichabods came after the Hilltoppers built a 24-point halftime advantage and held on through a second-half rally.

The Hilltoppers are now preparing to return home for the Atlantic Region Crossover this weekend at the Academic, Sports and Recreation Complex (ASRC). West Liberty will face Pitt-Johnstown on Friday before taking on California (Pa.) on Saturday.



West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.