Key Virginia Basketball Players Weigh NBA Draft Decisions

Cavaliers look to reload after losing several key contributors from 30-win team

Mar. 27, 2026 at 12:33am

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Virginia basketball is facing roster turnover after a successful 30-win season under head coach Ryan Odom. Several key players, including leading scorer Ugonna Onyenso and starting guard Jacari White, have exhausted their eligibility. However, the Cavaliers could potentially bring back starters Sam Lewis, Thijs de Ridder, and Johann Grunloh, as well as promising freshman Chance Mallory, if they opt to return for another season rather than pursue professional opportunities.

Why it matters

Virginia is looking to build on its strong 2022-23 campaign and contend for an ACC title and NCAA Tournament berth next season. The Cavaliers' ability to retain their top returning players will be crucial to their chances of sustained success.

The details

Virginia is losing five players to graduation or the end of their eligibility, including Onyenso and White, who were two of the team's most impactful performers. However, the Cavaliers could bring back several key pieces, headlined by Lewis, de Ridder, and Grunloh. Lewis was a steady contributor as a starter, while de Ridder earned All-ACC honors and is weighing his professional options. Grunloh was a defensive force who could also stretch the floor. Freshman Chance Mallory is also expected to take on an expanded role after a promising debut season.

  • Virginia's 2022-23 season ended with a loss in the NCAA Tournament on March 18, 2023.
  • The NCAA early entry deadline for the 2023 NBA Draft is April 23, 2023.

The players

Sam Lewis

A starting guard who averaged 10.6 points and 3.6 rebounds per game for Virginia in 2022-23.

Thijs de Ridder

A first-team All-ACC selection in 2022-23 who is weighing a potential jump to the professional ranks.

Johann Grunloh

A versatile forward who was one of the top shot blockers in the country last season and could provide valuable frontcourt production if he returns.

Chance Mallory

A promising freshman guard who emerged as a key contributor and is expected to take on an expanded role in 2023-24.

Ugonna Onyenso

Virginia's leading scorer and rebounder last season, Onyenso has exhausted his eligibility.

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What’s next

The Cavaliers will closely monitor the NBA Draft decisions of their top returning players in the coming weeks leading up to the April 23 early entry deadline.

The takeaway

Virginia faces some key roster turnover, but could bring back a strong core of experienced players if de Ridder, Grunloh, and others opt to return for another season. The Cavaliers' ability to retain their top talent will be crucial to their chances of building on last year's success.