UVA Basketball Season Prediction: Why the Cavaliers’ Bench Sets the Ceiling

For his first question of media day, Coach Ryan Odom was asked about his squad’s rotation and how deep of a lineup he thinks he might run once the season kicks off in a matter of days.

“It’s still a work in progress, quite honestly,” Odom said. “I like our bench. I like the options that we have there. But I would say that nothing is completely set at this point.”

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It is not too surprising that Odom kept his cards close to his chest on the subject, but how the rotation looks for No. 9 Virginia, and how deep the talent on the roster goes, are going to be crucial questions early in the season.

Last season, depth was one of the Cavaliers’ calling cards, with each member of the rotation bringing something different to the floor that allowed ample versatility, and a number also showcasing the ability to near-singlehandedly win the team a game.

Odom said he thinks this year’s team also has that type of firepower off the bench, even with the rotation still not fully cemented.

“Ultimately, the games are coming,” Odom said. “And they’re going to have to perform, each and every day.”

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Why is the bench the most important factor?

The biggest question marks off the bench primarily come down to two roles – point guard and center. As a true freshman off the bench, Chance Mallory was a dynamic and confident two-way playmaker who proved to be a real difference-maker game after game. He is going to be even better as a second-year, with Odom noting that a disciplined offseason has made him quicker, stronger, and lighter as he prepares for what could be a breakout sophomore campaign.

Loyola Marymount transfer Jan Vide is likely to be Virginia’s backup playmaker to start the season. Vide’s a talented passer who can get to the rim fairly well, but had a low free-throw rate as a junior and did not finish well in the paint. Where he will shine offensively is as a big guard in half-court pick-and-rolls, and as a transition threat who uses his size and vision to benefit the team….

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Publish date : 2026-11-01 23:00:00

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