Virginia Cavaliers' Breakout Season & NCAA Exit

0:00On March 23rd, the Virginia Cavaliers wrapped up their 2025-26 basketball season on Sunday with a tough second-round loss, too. Tennessee, in the NCAA tournament, still, it was a breakout year for first-year head coach Ryan Odom and the Hoos. Odom led the team to 30 wins, setting a program record for a rookie skipper. That beats the old mark held by Jeff Jones from the 1991 season. It's also the most victories Virginia has seen since the Tony Bennett era in 2018-19. Coach Odom got emotional in his post-game talk, calling the season deeply meaningful and praising the tight connection he forged with his players. That bond powered their return to the big dance after a long absence. The early tournament exits things, but the Cavaliers showed grit all year, both in games and beyond the court. Fans and players alike can hold their heads high. Now heading into offseason mode, the team has groundwork to build on and a little celebration feels well-earned before the next push begins.