# Virginia men's basketball preseason and season outlook

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/virginia-college-basketball-preseason
> Updated: 2026-10-30T00:00:00.000Z. Sources: 16. Developments: 2.

The No. 9 ranked University of Virginia men’s basketball team concluded its preseason schedule with a 93-71 exhibition victory over Villanova. The Cavaliers demonstrated a high-powered offense, shooting 50% from the field and making 15 three-point field goals. Five Virginia players scored in double figures, led by Thijs De Ridder with 17 points and Elijah Gertrude with 16 points. 

As the 2026-27 season approaches, the Cavaliers are preparing for their regular season opener against Drexel. Thijs De Ridder, an ACC Preseason Player of the Year, remains a central figure as coach Ryan Odom continues to finalize rotation roles. Other key players include Sam Lewis, Johann Grünloh, and Chance Mallory. However, the team faces an injury concern with Oregon transfer Kwame Evans Jr., who is listed as day-to-day due to a left leg injury.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-30: Virginia Tech basketball programs prepare for 2026-27 season

Virginia Tech men’s and women’s basketball teams prepare for their 2026-27 season openers, while the women's team faces the loss of Lauren Hurst to a season-ending knee injury.

14 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/virginia-college-basketball-preseason-updates

### 2026-10-22: Virginia defeats Villanova 93-71 in exhibition basketball finale

No. 9 Virginia defeated Villanova 93-71 in their final preseason exhibition game, led by efficient shooting and a balanced offensive attack.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/virginia-defeats-villanova-93-71-in-exhibition-basketball-finale

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Cite as: Virginia men's basketball preseason and season outlook. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/virginia-college-basketball-preseason