What's Happening?
The Virginia Cavaliers, ranked No. 21, defeated the NC State Wolfpack with a final score of 76-61. The game took place on January 3, 2026, and was a significant win for Virginia following a previous triple-overtime
loss. Sam Lewis was a standout player, matching his career high with 23 points. Thijs De Ridder also played a crucial role, particularly in the second half, helping Virginia to pull away from NC State. The Cavaliers improved their record to 12-2 overall and 1-1 in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), while NC State's record fell to 10-5 overall and 1-1 in the ACC.
Why It's Important?
This victory is important for Virginia as it helps them regain momentum in the ACC after a challenging loss. The win also boosts their confidence and standing within the conference, which is competitive with teams like Duke and Clemson leading the pack. For NC State, the loss highlights areas for improvement, particularly in maintaining leads and defensive strategies. The outcome of this game could influence the seeding and dynamics of the ACC as the season progresses, impacting both teams' chances for postseason play.
What's Next?
Virginia will look to build on this victory as they continue their ACC schedule, aiming to climb higher in the conference standings. Their next games will be crucial in determining their position for the ACC tournament. NC State, on the other hand, will need to regroup and address their weaknesses to improve their performance in upcoming matches. Both teams will be closely watched by analysts and fans as they navigate the rest of the season.
