Devin Ebanks, Rod Thorn, Jerry West and Hot Rod Hundley walk into a bar …

Actually, it’s not so far-fetched. At least they’ll have something to talk about after Ebanks’ encouraging effort Saturday against Seton Hall.

Working his way into a sense of comfort after battling personal issues and bum wrists this season, the sophomore from Long Island City, N.Y., followed Wednesday’s 14-point, 13-rebound game against Mississippi with a leap into historic company against the Pirates.

Ebanks finished with 22 points, 15 rebounds and seven assists – all season-high totals – and joined Jerry West, Hot Rod Hundley and Rod Thorn as the only Mountaineers to have at least 20-15-7 in a game.

“That’s what we expect from Devin,” Huggins said. “He’s been hurt and he’s really just now starting to get into the flow again. He had 17 rebounds in back-to-back games last year and averaged eight rebounds a game in the best league in the history of college basketball. He’s just now starting to come around and do the things he did a year ago.”

This is two Ebanks-esque games in a row now and he and his teammates agreed he is “back.” No way WVU escapes Newark with a win if Ebanks isn’t “back,” which is why this is labeled encouraging.

Considering the considerable diversions he’s had this season, he needed time to first find a groove and then settle into it. It’s happening now. Could he come off the rails in a game? Soon? Sure … but I think the way Huggins is using his big lineup now makes it harder for that to happen.

Ebanks likes having the ball in his hands and playing like a point guard … and a shooting guard … and a forward. Maybe that invites the potential for problems, but he seemed very comfortable and content Saturday and despite all the demands he didn’t turn it over once in 45 minutes.

He’s taken time to get used to shooting with the tape and dealing with the way it slips when he sweats and how it all complicates dribbling, passing and catching the ball. Slowly, though, he’s coming to grips with his game.

“I feel comfortable, I will say that,” he said. “I feel more comfortable and confident. I wasn’t myself before due to the couple games I missed. That takes a toll on you, but I’m glad I’m back.”

Off to football practice.