UVA Basketball falls to Tennessee in close game

Cavaliers attacked the rim more but struggled at the free throw line

Mar. 23, 2026 at 2:23am

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In a close matchup between evenly matched teams, the Virginia Cavaliers attacked the rim more than Tennessee but were unable to get to the free throw line as often, ultimately falling 79-72 to the Volunteers. The Cavaliers had 25 shots at the rim compared to just 15 for Tennessee, but the Vols attempted 19 free throws while Virginia only got to the line 11 times.

Why it matters

This loss highlights a recurring issue for the Cavaliers, who have struggled in several close games this season when they were unable to get to the free throw line as often as their opponents despite attacking the rim more. This raises questions about the consistency and fairness of officiating in these tight contests.

The details

Virginia attacked the rim frequently, taking 25 shots in the paint compared to just 15 for Tennessee. However, the Vols attempted 19 free throws while the Cavaliers only got to the line 11 times. This free throw disparity proved to be the difference, as Tennessee outscored Virginia 19-6 at the charity stripe. Several key calls down the stretch, including a questionable out-of-bounds ruling, also went against Virginia and contributed to the loss.

  • The Cavaliers trailed by just one point, 73-72, with 28 seconds remaining before the controversial out-of-bounds call.
  • Tennessee outscored Virginia 9-1 in the final 1:37, all nine of the Vols' points coming at the free throw line.

The players

Ryan Odom

The head coach of the Virginia Cavaliers, who was visibly frustrated by the officiating during the game.

Ja'Kobi Gillespie

A Tennessee player who allegedly committed a shove on a Virginia player that went uncalled.

Nate Ament

A Virginia freshman who was awarded free throws late in the game after a questionable call.

Jacari White

A Virginia player whose contested layup late in the game was ruled out of bounds, a call that the TV announcers disagreed with.

Thijs de Ridder

The Tennessee player who was incorrectly ruled to have touched the ball on the out-of-bounds call late in the game.

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What they’re saying

“The refs just decide of their own volition when to call fouls, and on whom.”

— Chris Graham, Author

“Stands as called" is a copout. That's a rule that needs to be changed. Review the play as if there was no call on the floor that needs to be treated as stare decisis.”

— Chris Graham, Author

What’s next

The NCAA may need to review the officiating rules and procedures to ensure more consistent and fair calls, especially in close games with significant free throw disparities.

The takeaway

This game highlights the ongoing challenges Virginia has faced this season in close losses, where they have been unable to get to the free throw line as often as their opponents despite attacking the rim more. The officiating decisions down the stretch proved pivotal and left the Cavaliers and their fans frustrated, raising broader questions about the consistency and fairness of officiating in college basketball.