MONTCOAL, W.Va. — West Virginia men's basketball coach Bob Huggins is making a surprise visit to the families of miners who have been killed or are missing following an explosion.

Huggins, who is affectionately known as "Huggy Bear," arrived by helicopter Wednesday.

The families have been waiting word on their loved ones since Monday's blast at Upper Big Branch Mine. Twenty-five miners have been killed and two are injured. Rescue crews are working to try to reach four who are missing.

Huggins is among the state's most recognizable and perhaps popular residents. Last week, he led the Mountaineers to their first Final Four since 1959.

The Mountaineers lost 78-57 on Saturday to eventual champion Duke.