Few players embodied toughness and production in the paint quite like Chris Moss.
A standout forward from Chesterfield, Virginia, Moss developed into one of the Big East Conference’s top frontcourt players during his time in Morgantown. Known for his physical style of play, rebounding ability, and scoring touch around the basket, Moss became one of the leaders of the Mountaineers and earned All-Big East recognition during his senior season.
After WVU, Moss went on to enjoy a lengthy professional career overseas, competing in countries including Spain, Germany, Israel, Japan, and Argentina while building a reputation as a respected veteran and winner.
In this edition of WVU Brotherhood, Chris reflects on his journey to West Virginia, his memories of playing in the Big East, his relationships with teammates and coaches, and what being a Mountaineer still means to him today.
What originally attracted you to West Virginia University during the recruiting process?
I originally committed to play for Coach Belein at the university of richmond. I decided to take a visit to WVU and it was all she wrote. It was a combination of the family atmosphere and the rowdiness of a college town that had me hooked.
What were your first impressions of Morgantown when you arrived on campus? On the drive from Pittsburgh, I was just like man where is this dude taking me?
Once I got there, I saw everyone’s wearing the school gear, it started to hit me how much they live for and support the school.
How would you describe your experience playing for Coach Gale Catlett?
It started off rough. Coach was about tough love but years later, it’s about preparing you for later on in life. Well except the suicides, he could have kept those.
What made the Big East such a challenging conference during your era?
It was just so physical from a freedom of movement standpoint. There were some tough matchups every game at the 4.
Looking back, what was the biggest adjustment from high school basketball to the college game?
The intensity and attention to detail at every moment. You had to remember each detail discussed in scouting offensively and defensively. Then realizing every play was going to be played with the highest sense of urgency. Everything seemed to be moving so fast.
During your senior season, you earned All-Big East honors. What do you remember most about that year?
I remember Drew getting like 11 steals in a game. I hadn’t ever seen anything like that before or after. Not just because he’s writing this but seriously that’s wild. lol
Who were some of the toughest players you faced during your time in the Big East?
Richard Hamilton, Etan Thomas, Troy Murphy, Ryan Humphrey, Mike Sweetney, and more but the coldest was this guy Jamel Thomas.
What teammates were you closest with at WVU?
Man back then it was Chris Garnett, John Oliver, Lionel Armstead, Calvin Bowman and Marcus Goree who actually ended up playing together with internationally.
What was the atmosphere like playing inside the Coliseum during your career?
It was rocking from the time the doors opened until it emptied out. People would get there early to taunt the opposing teams. It was hilarious.
Do you have a favorite game or moment from your time wearing the Old Gold and Blue?
My favorite moment wasn’t even a great moment. We were playing UConn and it was rough. I think I got scored on chasing Richard Hamilton off a screen, dunked on by one of the big guys and blown by pressing up on the point guard. I’m a freshman so coach takes me out and puts in Duane Lewis who off the bench who goes in and the same thing happens. Coach then takes him out and he comes down beside me on the bench and says it’s whooo it’s rough out there fellas. I stopped being mad and instantly put my shirt over my mouth so nobody would see me laughing. Sometimes all you can do is laugh.
How did WVU help prepare you for your professional basketball career overseas?
Coach prepared me for everything. He pushed me and pushed me to get better. He would even tell me don’t start going whacky on me out there Moss. My assistant coaches were awesome too. I got better as a pro than I was in college but it was the foundation I learned there. Coach Lester Rowe’s duck in took me all over the world and set my family up.
You played professionally in several countries. What were some of the biggest lessons you learned from that experience?
You learn to compete at every moment and attention to detail. No matter how big the contract, you were only as good as your last game. FIBA basketball is very detail oriented and was more similar to the spread out do it all basketball played these days. Lessons and skills that are transferable into the business world.
What does the phrase “WVU Brotherhood” mean to you today?
It means the world to me. Whether we talk everyday or every few years, I cherish and value every relationship I have with each and every person who put their blood sweat and tears on the court, in the training room, to the equipment room and even announcing the games. I support each and every one of them in whatever walk of life they have chosen. Also, a huge shout out to John Flowers who resurrected everyone getting back together years ago.
How closely do you still follow Mountaineer basketball?
I follow every game for basketball as well as football. I even started watching baseball this year. I haven’t been able to get back up there for the last few years but fully intend to make it happen this year
What advice would you give current WVU players and young athletes hoping to play at the next level?
Just keep grinding. There are going to be days where things look bleak but trust the work you’ve put in to get you are. It’s going to take that and an irrational belief in yourself to get you on the next level. Remember, it’s a business. Always keep that in mind. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are some great resources in this thing we call a brotherhood. Take advantage of them.