No. 18 Virginia Holds Syracuse to Season-Low Score in 72-59 Win

Sam Lewis scores 16 points to lead the Cavaliers

Feb. 7, 2026 at 4:39pm

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The No. 18 Virginia Cavaliers defeated the Syracuse Orange 72-59 on Saturday, holding Syracuse to its lowest point total of the season. Sam Lewis led the Cavaliers with 16 points, including 4 of 8 from 3-point range. Ugonna Onyenso added 10 points and 8 rebounds off the bench for Virginia, who have now won 4 straight games.

Why it matters

This win continues Virginia's strong season as they remain ranked in the top 20 nationally. The Cavaliers' stifling defense was on full display, limiting Syracuse to just 59 points, well below their season average. This game highlights Virginia's ability to win against conference opponents and maintain their position in the ACC standings.

The details

Virginia jumped out to an early lead, with Sam Lewis making his first 4 three-pointers. Lewis finished the game 5-of-10 shooting for 16 points. Ugonna Onyenso provided a boost off the bench for the Cavaliers, scoring 10 points and grabbing 8 rebounds. Syracuse was led by Naithan George, who scored 19 points on 8-of-9 shooting, but the rest of the Orange struggled, scoring just 40 points combined.

  • The game was played on Saturday, February 7, 2026.

The players

Sam Lewis

A key player for the Virginia Cavaliers, scoring 16 points including 4 made 3-pointers.

Ugonna Onyenso

A Virginia player who came off the bench to score 10 points and grab 8 rebounds.

Naithan George

The leading scorer for Syracuse, pouring in 19 points on 8-of-9 shooting.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to play tough defense and limit our opponents' scoring if we want to keep winning games.”

— Tony Bennett, Head Coach, Virginia Cavaliers

What’s next

Virginia will look to continue their winning streak when they visit Florida State on Tuesday, February 11th. Syracuse will try to bounce back when they host California on Wednesday, February 12th.

The takeaway

This game showcased Virginia's defensive prowess, as they were able to hold Syracuse to their lowest scoring output of the season. The Cavaliers' balanced scoring attack and strong bench play were also key factors in securing the victory and maintaining their position in the top 25 rankings.