UPDATE: The University of Virginia men’s basketball team is set to open their 2025-26 season against Rider at 7 p.m. today, marking the debut of new head coach Ryan Odom. After a productive transition period, Odom is optimistic about his team’s potential to quickly gel, thanks to a roster packed with experienced players.
In a recent exhibition, the Cavaliers edged past Villanova, 75-72, showcasing a new style of play that emphasizes physicality and teamwork. Odom, who has successfully led previous teams to NCAA Tournament appearances, expressed confidence in his squad’s progress. “Your opponents eventually tell you,” he reminded, highlighting the importance of today’s matchup.
Virginia’s roster features a mix of talent, including four graduate transfers and skilled players like point guard Dallin Hall, who brings over 100 games of experience from BYU. “The talent we have, it’s going to be fun to see how everything jells together,” said transfer Malik Thomas, who led the team with 16 points against Villanova.
Odom’s coaching philosophy prioritizes unselfish basketball, a strategy that seems to resonate with the players. During the exhibition, UVA assisted on 15 of their 24 baskets, a promising sign of their collective effort. However, Odom noted areas for improvement, particularly regarding their ball movement and the concerning 18 turnovers during the game.
Defensively, UVA plans to implement a full-court pressure strategy, designed to force turnovers and control the pace of the game. With strong rim protectors like Johann Gruenloh and Ugonna Onyenso, the Cavaliers are poised to challenge their opponents vigorously.
As the season unfolds, Odom aims to deepen his rotation, expecting to utilize up to 10 players early in the season. “It takes a certain level of fitness to play this hard,” he stated, emphasizing the physical demands of his pressure system.
Following the opener against Rider, UVA will host games against North Carolina Central, Hampton, and Marshall before facing tough neutral-site matchups against Northwestern and Butler on November 21 and 23, respectively. The Cavaliers are also set for nonconference clashes against Texas, Dayton, and Maryland in December, culminating in an ACC opener at rival Virginia Tech on December 31.
With high hopes of returning to national prominence, Thomas emphasized the team’s shared goal: “Getting back to playing championship basketball.” Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the Cavaliers take the court tonight, eager to see how this new chapter unfolds under Ryan Odom’s leadership.
