The anticipation surrounding Virginia men’s basketball is palpable as the program gears up for a pivotal season. With an exciting eight-player transfer class joining two incoming high school recruits and two returning players, the buzz in Charlottesville is undeniable. Recently, the Cavaliers made their mark on the national stage, as Sports Illustrated ranked them 20th in a Way-Too-Early NCAA men’s basketball ranking for the 2025-26 season. This ranking highlights the potential resurgence under head coach Ryan Odom, who is clearly setting the stage for a competitive campaign.
In this analysis, Virginia is positioned as the third-best team in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), trailing only powerhouse programs Duke and Louisville, who are ranked eighth and tenth, respectively. What’s promising for the Cavaliers is not just the talent being brought in but the thoughtful strategy that Ryan Odom has employed to rebuild this roster.
A key component of this transformation is the addition of international talent, notably German center Johann Grünloh. Projected as a second-round pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, Grünloh has already made a name for himself overseas. Last season with Rasta Vechta in Germany, he put up solid numbers, averaging 8.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks in around 23 minutes of play. His shooting—47.6% from the field and 35.4% from three-point range—will add both size and versatility to the Cavaliers’ frontcourt.
Shooting seems to be a central theme in the roster’s construction, with Odom prioritizing players who can stretch the defense. Malik Thomas, a key addition from San Francisco, shot an impressive 39.7% from beyond the arc last season while averaging 19.9 points per game. His prowess at the free-throw line, where he went a perfect 17-for-17 in a second-round NIT matchup, will undoubtedly enhance Virginia’s scoring options.
The transfers don’t stop there. Virginia also welcomes high-level shooters Jacari White and Sam Lewis, both ready to make their mark in the ACC. White arrives from North Dakota State boasting a career three-point shooting percentage of 40% and an eye-popping 45.5% during the 2023-24 season. Beyond his offensive capabilities, he brings a defensive tenacity having earned recognition as a member of the Summit League All-Defensive Team two years ago, coupled with his recent Second Team All-Summit League honors.
Lewis, previously with Toledo, adds further shooting depth, having connected on 44.4% of his three-point attempts last season while contributing an average of 16.2 points per game and 47% shooting overall. His ability to score from various areas on the court will be invaluable for the Cavaliers as they look to capitalize on offensive opportunities.
Lastly, attention turns to Belgian forward Thijs De Ridder, a 6’8 prospect that UVA has been courting. With a promising average of 10.1 points and 5.3 rebounds last season in Spain, De Ridder’s skill set and potential as a projected second-round NBA draft selection next year adds another exciting layer to the mix.
With Ryan Odom steering this talented transfer class, along with promising freshmen like Chance Mallory and Silas Barksdale, the Cavaliers are positioning themselves for a compelling season ahead. Fans and analysts alike should keep a close eye on how this fusion of skill and strategy plays out as the fall approaches.
