30 Facts About UVA Basketball

History of UVA Basketball

The University of Virginia (UVA) basketball team has a rich history filled with memorable moments and achievements. Here are some fascinating facts about the Cavaliers' journey through the years.

1. The UVA basketball program began in 1905, making it one of the oldest in the country.
2. The team is known as the Cavaliers, a nickname that dates back to the 1920s.
3. UVA's first official game was played against the Medical College of Virginia, which they won 30-9.
4. The Cavaliers joined the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) in 1953, becoming a key member of one of the most competitive conferences in college basketball.
5. The team has won three ACC Tournament championships, with their first victory in 1976.

Legendary Coaches

Coaches play a crucial role in shaping a team's success. UVA has been fortunate to have some legendary figures at the helm.

6. Terry Holland, who coached from 1974 to 1990, led the team to two Final Four appearances.
7. Jeff Jones, a former player, took over as head coach in 1990 and led the team to several NCAA Tournament appearances.
8. Pete Gillen coached from 1998 to 2005, bringing a high-energy style to the team.
9. Tony Bennett, the current head coach, has transformed UVA into a national powerhouse since taking over in 2009.
10. Bennett's defensive philosophy, known as the "Pack Line Defense," has become a hallmark of UVA basketball.

Memorable Seasons

Certain seasons stand out in the history of UVA basketball for their remarkable achievements and unforgettable moments.

11. The 1980-81 season saw UVA reach its first Final Four, led by star player Ralph Sampson.
12. In 2014, the Cavaliers won both the ACC regular-season and tournament titles for the first time in school history.
13. The 2018-19 season was historic, as UVA won its first NCAA Championship.
14. That championship run included an incredible comeback against Purdue in the Elite Eight.
15. The 2019 title game saw UVA defeat Texas Tech in overtime, securing their place in history.

Star Players

UVA has produced numerous talented players who have left a lasting impact on the program and beyond.

16. Ralph Sampson, a three-time National Player of the Year, is considered one of the greatest college basketball players of all time.
17. Bryant Stith, who played from 1988 to 1992, is UVA's all-time leading scorer with 2,516 points.
18. Sean Singletary, a dynamic point guard, was a three-time All-ACC selection.
19. Malcolm Brogdon, known for his leadership and versatility, won the ACC Player of the Year award in 2016.
20. De'Andre Hunter, a key player in the 2019 championship team, was named the Final Four Most Outstanding Player.

Iconic Games

Certain games in UVA basketball history have become legendary due to their dramatic finishes and significance.

21. The 1981 Elite Eight game against BYU, where Ralph Sampson's dominant performance led UVA to the Final Four.
22. The 2001 ACC Tournament final, where UVA defeated North Carolina to win their first ACC title in 25 years.
23. The 2016 game against Louisville, where UVA overcame a 10-point deficit in the final minutes to win.
24. The 2018 game against UMBC, despite being a historic upset, served as motivation for the following year's championship run.
25. The 2019 Elite Eight game against Purdue, featuring Mamadi Diakite's buzzer-beater to send the game into overtime.

Fan Culture

UVA basketball has a passionate fan base that supports the team through thick and thin.

26. The student section, known as the "Hoo Crew," is famous for its energy and creativity.
27. John Paul Jones Arena, the team's home court, is considered one of the best college basketball venues in the country.
28. The "Good Old Song," sung by fans after every game, is a cherished tradition.
29. UVA's rivalry with Virginia Tech, known as the "Commonwealth Clash," is one of the most intense in college basketball.
30. The annual "Orange Out" game, where fans wear orange to support the team, creates a sea of color in the stands.

The Final Buzzer

UVA basketball has a rich history filled with remarkable achievements and memorable moments. From legendary players like Ralph Sampson to Tony Bennett's coaching brilliance, the Cavaliers have made their mark on college basketball. Their defensive prowess, teamwork, and dedication to excellence have earned them a special place in the hearts of fans. Whether it's the thrilling victories, the heartbreaking losses, or the unforgettable 2019 championship run, UVA basketball continues to inspire and excite. As the team looks to the future, one thing's for sure: the Cavaliers will keep striving for greatness, making every game a must-watch. So, next time you catch a UVA game, remember the history, the passion, and the unwavering spirit that define this incredible program. Go Hoos!