Virginia Basketball: Building on Success, Filling Gaps

0:00On March 27, Virginia's basketball team wrapped up a stellar first season under coach Ryan Odom with 30 wins, runner-up finishes in both the ACC, regular season and tournament, and a first round NCAA tournament victory. It marked a huge step up from last year's early ACC exit, thanks to a veteran heavy roster of transfers mixed with a bit of young talent. Several key players are moving on due to exhausted eligibility, including Dalin Hall, Agana Agnanzo, Malik Thomas, Jakari White, and Devin Tillis. Agnanzo and White stood out as the toughest to replace, though everyone contributed significantly to the team's success. The departures leave big holes, but the core was built on experience and now the focus shifts to rebuilding around youth and returners. No one has entered the transfer portal yet, which is a good sign for stability. Looking ahead, starters like Sam Lewis could return after averaging 10.6 points and 3.6 rebounds per game, with solid shooting. First team all ACC Big Man, the eyes deritter might come back too, despite NBA draft buzz, while Johan Grunlow and freshman standout chance Mallory.

1:08Offer high upside if they stay. With depth pieces like Carter Lang and Owen Odom also in the mix, Virginia has a solid foundation to stay competitive next year under Odom's watch.