Depth Proves Decisive Again for UVA Men

The 18th-ranked Virginia Cavaliers reached the 20-win mark with a 72-59 victory over ACC rival Syracuse.

Feb. 7, 2026 at 10:55pm

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The 18th-ranked Virginia Cavaliers defeated ACC rival Syracuse 72-59 on Saturday, reaching the 20-win mark for the season. UVA's leading scorer was junior swingman Sam Lewis with 16 points, while two other starters, Thijs De Ridder and Malik Thomas, combined for 17 points. However, the Cavaliers also received significant contributions from their reserves, known as the "Bench Mob", who combined for 27 points, 16 rebounds, 11 assists and 6 steals.

Why it matters

Virginia's depth and bench production have been key factors in their success this season, as they've been able to wear down opponents with fresh legs and multiple scoring threats. This win over Syracuse showcases the Cavaliers' ability to get contributions from up and down the roster, a trait that will be important as they continue their push for an NCAA Tournament berth.

The details

After Syracuse cut the deficit to four points with 15:01 to play, UVA's bench players helped the Cavaliers pull away again. Chance Mallory had a steal that led to a 3-pointer by Sam Lewis, and Jacori White followed with a steal and dunk by Ugonna Onyenso to make it 55-46. Syracuse fought back again to make it a four-point game with 5:10 left, but Virginia closed the game on an 11-2 run to secure the victory.

  • The game was played on Saturday, February 7, 2026.
  • Virginia reached the 20-win mark with this victory.

The players

Sam Lewis

A junior swingman who led Virginia with 16 points.

Thijs De Ridder

A starting forward who combined with Malik Thomas for 17 points.

Ugonna Onyenso

A 7-foot center who came off the bench to finish with 10 points, 8 rebounds, 3 blocks and 2 steals.

Jacori White

A guard who provided a significant lift off the bench, scoring 8 points with 3 assists and 2 steals.

Chance Mallory

A guard who is part of the "Bench Mob" that helped the Cavaliers pull away in the second half.

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What they’re saying

“That's something we take pride in every game. When we come in, we bring the energy, either lift it up or maintain what the starters are bringing.”

— Jacori White, Guard

“We play for one another. Our depth is something different. It doesn't matter who starts. The way we're connected, it's like everybody's playing for one another ...... Coming off the bench, starting, it doesn't matter. Whenever we're in there, we play as hard as we can, and then we come out and the next person is going in.”

— Ugonna Onyenso, Center

What’s next

Virginia's next game is on Tuesday, February 10th at 7pm against ACC foe Florida State, which will air on ESPNU. The Cavaliers have won four straight over the Seminoles and lead the series 30-28.

The takeaway

Virginia's depth and bench production have been key factors in their success this season, as they've been able to get contributions from up and down the roster. This win over Syracuse showcases the Cavaliers' ability to wear down opponents with fresh legs and multiple scoring threats, a trait that will be important as they continue their push for an NCAA Tournament berth.