Virginia Drops in Way-Too-Early Rankings

0:00On April 28th, right after Michigan's national title win, early top 25 polls had Virginia pegged as a top 10 squad for next season, thanks to their strong returning core. But the transfer portal changed everything, and now ESPN's way too early list drops the Cavaliers to number 17. They've only snagged one portal edition so far, forward Julian Dixon from UC Irvine, which opened the door for other teams to leapfrog them. Virginia prioritized keeping their own talent intact, bringing back four of their top six scores and minute leaders from last year. That core includes standout freshman Thea's Day Ritter, who lit up the ACC, plus Sam Lewis showing late season promise as an offensive hub, bench wizard, chance Malleria Poingard, and defensive rock, Johan Grunlo. Fans and analysts are praising coach Ryan Odom for their attention in today's free agency era, but depth is the big question mark. Meanwhile, ACC rivals are stacking rosters.

1:00Duke landed a killer class with stars returning, Louisville and Miami grab impressive portal halls, and North Carolina's hiring ex NBA coach Michael Malone has everyone buzzing. Virginia's spot at the conference top isn't locked down yet. Odom's got time to hit the portal hard for wing help and bench bodies, so keep eyes on how he builds this out before the season tips.