As Virginia gears up to host NC State in a key ACC matchup, the Cavaliers are on the brink of their longest winning streak since their 2018-19 national championship run. Sitting at 24-3 overall and 12-2 in the ACC, they’ve strung together eight consecutive victories, matching their best streak since that memorable season.
Currently second in the ACC, just a game behind Duke, Virginia boasts a formidable 13-1 record at home. Meanwhile, NC State, with a 19-8 overall and 10-4 conference record, is tied for third and eager to maintain momentum following a significant win.
Virginia’s latest triumph was a nail-biter against Miami, ending 86-83. The game was a rollercoaster with 12 lead changes and 14 ties. Chance Mallory’s clutch performance at the free-throw line, sinking three crucial shots with just 3.6 seconds left, and Thijs De Ridder’s game-saving steal sealed the victory.
Coach Ryan Odom emphasized the importance of their second-half resilience, highlighting Miami’s aggressive style and the challenge of matching their intensity on the boards and at the line.
This season, Virginia’s success has been fueled by offensive rebounding, sharp 3-point shooting, and a balanced scoring attack. Against Miami, the Cavaliers hit 12 of 24 from beyond the arc and had six players in double figures, despite limited second-chance points.
De Ridder leads the team with averages of 15.9 points and 6.4 rebounds per game. Jacari White, who scored 17 against Miami, is a sharpshooter hitting 45.3% from deep. Sam Lewis, who notched a season-high 23 points in their previous meeting with NC State, was instrumental in that 76-61 victory.
NC State, fresh off a dominant 82-58 win over North Carolina, is looking to build on their recent success. Quadir Copeland’s 20-point performance helped the Wolfpack stifle the Tar Heels, holding them to just 31.7% shooting.
Coach Will Wade is keen on maintaining this momentum, urging his team to “sprint through the finish line” as they eye a strong close to the season.
The Wolfpack’s balanced offense is led by Darrion Williams, Copeland, Ven-Allen Lubin, and Paul McNeil Jr., all averaging double figures. Matt Able has been a recent standout, averaging 18 points over his last two games.
With both teams vying for a top-four finish in the ACC, securing a coveted double-bye in the tournament, this matchup promises to be a pivotal chapter in their seasons.