Virginia basketball defeats Drexel in season opener

No. 9 Virginia opened its basketball season with an 89-60 victory over Drexel. The Cavaliers established an early lead, scoring 51 points in the first half and holding a 24-point advantage at halftime.

Thijs De Ridder led the team with 24 points and nine rebounds, including a rapid 12-point scoring burst in the opening minutes. Sam Lewis contributed 20 points, while Johann Grunloh added 11 points and nine rebounds. Virginia shot 15 for 19 from the free-throw line during the contest.

Drexel was led by Latief Lorenzano-White and Ladricus Pittman, who each scored 11 points. Virginia's upcoming schedule includes matchups against Arkansas and Maryland.