Opinion
3 min read

Virginia Cavaliers Set to Host Tarleton State Texans at John Paul Jones Arena

As the Virginia Cavaliers prepare to welcome the Tarleton State Texans to the John Paul Jones Arena, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be an intriguing matchup. The Cavaliers, coming off a nail-biting loss against the Furman Paladins on March 16th where they fell short by just one point (67-68), will be looking to bounce back and assert their dominance on their home court.


Mar 9, 2023; Greensboro, NC, USA; Virginia Cavaliers forward Kadin Shedrick (21) scores in the second half of the quarterfinals of the ACC tournament at Greensboro Coliseum.  Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

The previous game's statistics reveal that UVA had a stronger presence in the paint, scoring 32 points compared to Furman's 22, and outrebounding them with a total of 39 rebounds. Their two-point field goal percentage was impressive at 52 percent, showing efficiency in close-range shots. However, their three-point shooting was lackluster at just 17 percent. This is an area where UVA must improve if they want to secure victory against Tarleton State.


On defense, Virginia showcased their ability to protect the rim with seven blocks but will need to maintain this intensity against a Texans team that is eager for an upset. The Cavaliers' assist-to-turnover ratio stood at 1.63 which indicates decent ball movement and decision-making; maintaining or improving this ratio could be key in overcoming TARL.


Looking at TARL's performance thus far into the season would suggest that they are underdogs coming into this game. However, basketball fans know better than to underestimate any team — every game has its own dynamics and surprises.


The last time UVA faced a ranked opponent was during their ACC Championship clash with Duke Blue Devils on March 12th where they suffered a ten-point defeat (49-59). Despite being defensively sound with six steals and four blocks, it was offensive woes that plagued them — shooting only 33 percent from the field overall.


In contrast, during their ACC Semifinal victory over Clemson Tigers on March 11th (76-56), UVA demonstrated what they're capable of when firing on all cylinders — an efficient offense coupled with solid defense leading to a comfortable win margin of twenty points.


For Virginia fans looking ahead towards November 7th’s contest against TARL: expect your team’s resilience and determination after recent setbacks as well as home-court advantage playing pivotal roles in pursuing victory. Coach Bennett will undoubtedly have his squad ready for battle focusing on sharpening offensive execution while maintaining defensive rigor.


Remember Cavalier supporters: mark your calendars for November 7th when UVA takes center stage at John Paul Jones Arena in Charlottesville; tip-off is scheduled for prime time viewing pleasure! You can catch all live action via ACC Network Extra online platform – don't miss out!

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