As the Virginia Cavaliers prepare to host the Pittsburgh Panthers at John Paul Jones Arena, fans are eager to see if UVA can continue their recent performance trends. The Cavaliers have shown a mix of resilience and areas for improvement over their past few games, which will be crucial factors in their upcoming matchup.

Jan 3, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers center Federiko Federiko (33) shoots the ball against the Virginia Cavaliers during the second half at the Petersen Events Center. Pittsburgh won 68-65. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

In their last game against the Memphis Tigers, despite a strong start with 32 points in the first half, Virginia struggled to maintain momentum, scoring only 22 points in the second half. Their field goal percentage was modest at 39 percent, and they were particularly challenged beyond the arc with a three-point percentage of just 21 percent. Turnovers were also an issue; they gave up possession 18 times.

However, when facing Northeastern Huskies at home earlier this season, Virginia showcased better control with only five turnovers and an impressive assist-to-turnover ratio of 2.6. Their two-point shooting was more effective as well – hitting at a rate of 51 percent – but again three-point shots were lacking with just a 14 percent success rate.

Jan 3, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers guard Nike Sibande (22) shoots a three point basket against the Virginia Cavaliers during the second half at the Petersen Events Center. Pittsburgh won 68-65. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

The Cavaliers' most dominant recent performance came against North Carolina Central Eagles where they excelled across all fronts: A high field goal percentage of 54 percent coupled with strong defensive play that included six blocks and seven steals contributed to a comfortable victory.

Looking ahead to Valentine's Day's game against Pittsburgh Panthers, maintaining defensive intensity while improving shooting accuracy from distance will be key for Virginia. The home court advantage should also not be underestimated; playing in front of their own fans has historically provided an extra boost for the team.

Jan 3, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Virginia Cavaliers guard Reece Beekman (2) drives to the basket against Pittsburgh Panthers guard Jamarius Burton (11) during the second half at the Petersen Events Center. Pittsburgh won 68-65. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Fans can catch this exciting encounter on February 14th at John Paul Jones Arena or tune into ACC Network on channel 612 for national coverage. With tip-off scheduled for midnight UTC (7 PM Eastern Time), it promises to be an engaging battle between two competitive teams looking to assert themselves mid-season.

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