It’s not every day you get a high-stakes nonconference clash dropped into the middle of February, but that’s exactly what we’re getting with Virginia and Ohio State meeting in the Nashville Hoops Showdown on Valentine’s Day. Two programs with postseason aspirations, two different trajectories, and one opportunity to make a statement as the regular season begins its final turn.
Virginia: Steady Climb, Familiar Formula
Let’s start with Virginia. The Cavaliers have quietly built a 21-3 record, including a rock-solid 10-2 mark in ACC play. That puts them just one game off the top of the conference standings, and while this game won’t impact that race, it offers a chance to sharpen their edge against quality competition.
Under Ryan Odom, Virginia has returned to its defensive roots. The pack-line principles are still very much alive, and the Cavaliers have turned that identity into five straight wins-three of those on the road. That’s the kind of grit that travels, and it’ll be tested again in Nashville.
The offensive side of things? Still a work in progress.
Even during this win streak, Virginia hasn’t exactly lit up the scoreboard. But what they’ve lacked in fireworks, they’ve made up for in control.
And when you’ve got a player like Thijs De Ridder-averaging 16.1 points and 6.6 boards-you don’t need to be flashy, just efficient. De Ridder is the engine of this offense, and if he gets into rhythm early, Virginia becomes a tough out for anyone.
Ohio State: Searching for Stability
On the other side, Ohio State is looking for something they haven’t had in a while: consistency. The Buckeyes are 16-8, but the record doesn’t tell the whole story.
Over the past two months, they’ve been bouncing between wins and losses like a team still trying to figure out who they are. Close calls against teams like North Carolina and Pittsburgh have shown flashes of what they could be-but also highlighted just how much work remains.
This matchup against Virginia gives them another shot at an ACC opponent and a chance to build some momentum heading back into the Big Ten grind. And make no mistake, they’ll need it.
The Buckeyes have talent, no question. Bruce Thornton is the heartbeat of this team, averaging 19.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game.
He’s the kind of player who can tilt a game with his scoring or his playmaking. If Ohio State is going to pull off the upset, Thornton has to be the best player on the floor-on both ends.
He’ll get help from **John Mobley Jr. **, Devin Royal, and Christoph Tilly, all of whom are capable scorers.
But it’s going to take more than buckets to beat Virginia. The Buckeyes need to lock in defensively, particularly when it comes to slowing down De Ridder and forcing the Cavaliers into uncomfortable offensive sets.
Key Matchup: De Ridder vs. Ohio State’s Frontcourt
This game may hinge on how well Ohio State can contain De Ridder. He’s not just Virginia’s top scorer-he’s their tone-setter.
If the Buckeyes can frustrate him, force him into tough looks, and limit his second-chance opportunities, they’ll give themselves a real shot. But if De Ridder gets into a rhythm, it could be a long night for the scarlet and gray.
What’s at Stake
For Virginia, this is about staying sharp and adding a quality nonconference win to the résumé. Every data point matters in February, and this one could help solidify their seeding come Selection Sunday.
For Ohio State, it’s about finding traction. They’ve let a few opportunities slip away in Big Ten play. This is a chance to flip the narrative, notch a marquee win, and build belief heading into the stretch run.
Game Info
- When: Valentine’s Day
- Where: Nashville, Tennessee
- Watch: FOX
- Streaming: FuboTV
Betting Lines
- Spread: Virginia -4
- Moneyline: Virginia -194, Ohio State +175
- Total: 147.5
Series History
- All-time: Tied 3-3
- Last meeting: Virginia edged Ohio State 63-61 back in 2016
Projected Starters
Virginia Cavaliers
- Thijs De Ridder (16.1 ppg, 6.6 rpg)
- Malik Thomas (12.2 ppg, 4.0 rpg)
- Sam Lewis (10.6 ppg, 3.7 rpg)
- Johann Grunloh (7.8 ppg, 5.8 rpg)
- Dallin Hall (5.7 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 4.2 apg)
Ohio State Buckeyes
- Bruce Thornton (19.3 ppg, 5.3 rpg, 3.8 apg)
- John Mobley Jr. (15.1 ppg, 2.8 apg)
- Devin Royal (14.0 ppg, 5.7 rpg)
- Christoph Tilly (11.8 ppg, 4.8 rpg)
- Amare Bynum (9.2 ppg, 4.5 rpg)
Final Thought
It’s a classic February litmus test-one team trying to stay hot, the other trying to find its footing. If Virginia’s defense shows up and De Ridder takes over, the Cavaliers could walk out with their sixth straight win. But if Thornton puts together one of his all-around performances and Ohio State gets contributions across the board, we could be in for a tight one in Nashville.
One thing’s for sure: come Valentine’s Day, both teams will be playing for something they love-a chance to dance in March.