No. 15 Virginia Beats Ohio State 70-66 in Nashville

Malik Thomas and Sam Lewis each score 13 points to lead the Cavaliers to victory.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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In a close game at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, the 15th-ranked Virginia Cavaliers defeated the Ohio State Buckeyes 70-66. Malik Thomas and Sam Lewis each scored 13 points for Virginia, who extended their winning streak to six games. Bruce Thornton led Ohio State with 28 points, but it wasn't enough as the Cavaliers rallied late to secure the victory.

Why it matters

This non-conference matchup between two top college basketball programs provides an early-season test for both teams as they look to build momentum heading into conference play. The win boosts Virginia's resume and keeps them in the national rankings, while Ohio State's loss is a setback as they try to bounce back from a tough start to the season.

The details

The game was tied 37-37 at halftime, but Ohio State opened up a six-point lead with under 10 minutes remaining. However, Virginia responded with a 6-0 run to tie the game. In the final minute, Sam Lewis forced a turnover and scored a layup to give the Cavaliers a 65-61 lead, and he then hit two free throws to seal the victory.

  • The game was played on Saturday, February 15, 2026 at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee.
  • Ohio State said that John Mobley Jr. will be sidelined indefinitely due to a hand injury sustained on Wednesday night against Southern California.

The players

Malik Thomas

A player for the Virginia Cavaliers who scored 13 points in the game.

Sam Lewis

A player for the Virginia Cavaliers who also scored 13 points, including a key layup and free throws in the final minute to help secure the win.

Bruce Thornton

A player for the Ohio State Buckeyes who scored a game-high 28 points in the loss.

Amare Bynum

A player for the Ohio State Buckeyes who had 15 points and 6 rebounds in the game.

John Mobley Jr.

An Ohio State player who was sidelined indefinitely due to a hand injury sustained in a previous game.

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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)

The takeaway

This game showcased the strength of the Virginia Cavaliers, who were able to rally late and secure a hard-fought victory over a tough Ohio State team. The loss is a setback for the Buckeyes, who will need to regroup as they head into their next game against Wisconsin.