Virginia Cavaliers Defeat Ohio State Buckeyes in Nail-Biter

No. 15 Virginia extends winning streak to 6 games with 70-66 victory over Ohio State

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The No. 15 Virginia Cavaliers defeated the Ohio State Buckeyes 70-66 in a hard-fought contest at the Nashville Hoops Showdown. Virginia's Malik Thomas scored 13 points to lead the Cavaliers, while Ohio State's Bruce Thornton had a standout performance with 28 points. The game was close throughout, with Virginia rallying from a late deficit to secure the victory and improve to 22-3 on the season.

Why it matters

This win solidifies Virginia's status as one of the top teams in the ACC and the nation, as they continue to prove their resilience and ability to win tough road games. The loss is a setback for Ohio State, who were without starting guard John Mobley Jr. due to injury.

The details

The game was a back-and-forth battle, with neither team able to create significant separation in the first half. Virginia's Malik Thomas kept the Cavaliers steady with his strong scoring, while Ohio State's Bruce Thornton had a standout individual performance. In the second half, Ohio State briefly took a six-point lead, but Virginia responded with a 6-0 run to regain control. A key sequence late in the game saw Virginia's Sam Lewis force a turnover, score a layup, and then hit two free throws to seal the victory.

  • The game was played on Saturday, February 16, 2026 at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee.
  • Virginia and Ohio State entered halftime tied at 37.

The players

Malik Thomas

A Virginia Cavaliers player who scored 13 points to lead his team's offensive charge.

Bruce Thornton

An Ohio State Buckeyes player who scored a sensational 28 points and recorded his 500th career assist, showcasing his importance to the Buckeyes' offense.

Sam Lewis

A Virginia Cavaliers player who made a key defensive play and hit two free throws in the final minute to help secure the Cavaliers' victory.

Amare Bynum

An Ohio State Buckeyes player who contributed 15 points and 6 rebounds to the Buckeyes' effort.

John Mobley Jr.

A starting guard for the Ohio State Buckeyes who was sidelined indefinitely with a hand injury, limiting the Buckeyes' offensive depth and versatility.

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What they’re saying

“This win solidifies our status as one of the top teams in the country. Our resilience and ability to win tough road games is a testament to the character of this team.”

— Tony Bennett, Head Coach, Virginia Cavaliers (Virginia Athletics)

“Losing John was a big blow for us, but our guys fought hard and gave it everything they had. We'll regroup and come back stronger for our next game against Wisconsin.”

— Chris Holtmann, Head Coach, Ohio State Buckeyes (Ohio State Athletics)

What’s next

The Virginia Cavaliers will next face the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, while the Ohio State Buckeyes will host the Wisconsin Badgers.

The takeaway

This hard-fought contest demonstrated the Virginia Cavaliers' resilience and solidified their status as one of the nation's most formidable basketball teams, capable of challenging any opponent. The loss is a setback for Ohio State, but they will look to regroup and bounce back in their upcoming game against Wisconsin.