Virginia Basketball Defeats Syracuse in ACC Matchup

Cavaliers pull away in second half for 72-59 victory over Orange

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Virginia Cavaliers defeated the Syracuse Orange 72-59 in an ACC men's basketball matchup. After a tight first half, Virginia pulled away in the second half to secure the victory. The win marked the fourth straight 20-win season for head coach Ryan Odom, who has led the Cavaliers to success across three different schools.

Why it matters

The win keeps Virginia in contention for a high seed in the upcoming ACC tournament and NCAA tournament. The Cavaliers have been a consistent force in the conference under Odom's leadership, and this victory over a conference rival like Syracuse demonstrates their ability to win tough road games.

The details

Jacari White had a bounce-back game for Virginia, going 2-for-5 from three-point range and adding three assists and two steals. Chance Mallory once again made his presence felt, drawing a crucial charge late in the game to help preserve the Cavaliers' lead. Dallin Hall also made a key play, driving to the basket for an and-one layup in transition. Ugonna Onyenso continued to make a case for more playing time, recording a double-double with 10 points and a game-high 8 rebounds.

  • The game was played on February 7, 2026.
  • Virginia has now won 20 games for the fourth straight season under head coach Ryan Odom.

The players

Ryan Odom

The head coach of the Virginia Cavaliers, who has led the team to 20-win seasons in four straight years across three different schools.

Jacari White

A Virginia player who had a bounce-back game, going 2-for-5 from three-point range and adding three assists and two steals.

Chance Mallory

A Virginia player known for his defensive intensity, who drew a crucial charge late in the game to help preserve the Cavaliers' lead.

Dallin Hall

The Virginia point guard who made a key play, driving to the basket for an and-one layup in transition.

Ugonna Onyenso

A Virginia player who continued to make a case for more playing time, recording a double-double with 10 points and a game-high 8 rebounds.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.