Cavaliers Make Opening Statement: No. 9 Virginia Rolls Past Drexel, 89-60 (11-3-26)
BY: DARRELL OWENS
HEADLINE PHOTO CREDIT: DARRELL OWENS-LMS NETWORK
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — November 3, 2026 — No. 9 Virginia opened the 2026-27 men’s basketball season with an impressive 89-60 victory over Drexel Tuesday night at John Paul Jones Arena, showcasing an explosive offense and relentless defensive pressure.
The Cavaliers improved to 1-0 under second-year head coach Ryan Odom, securing their seventh consecutive season-opening victory.
Preseason ACC Player of the Year Thijs De Ridder wasted little time establishing his presence, scoring 12 points in the opening 140 seconds to give Virginia an early 14-2 advantage. The Cavaliers continued their offensive surge, extending the lead to 25-4 within the first eight minutes.
De Ridder finished with a game-high 24 points, nine rebounds and two steals, setting the tone for Virginia’s dominant performance.
The Cavaliers carried a commanding 51-27 advantage into halftime, fueled by efficient shooting and aggressive defense.
Drexel attempted to battle back in the second half, cutting Virginia’s lead to 16 points. However, the Cavaliers responded with a decisive 22-3 run, eliminating any hopes of a Dragons comeback.
Sam Lewis delivered an outstanding performance, contributing 20 points, four rebounds, three assists and three steals while connecting on four three-pointers.
Johann Grünloh added 11 points and nine rebounds, helping Virginia control the boards.
Defensively, the Cavaliers established a John Paul Jones Arena record with 18 steals, forcing 21 Drexel turnovers and converting those mistakes into 25 points.
Virginia also connected on 10 three-pointers and outrebounded Drexel 42-33.
Game Stats
| Category | Virginia | Drexel |
| Final Score | 89 | 60 |
| First Half | 51 | 27 |
| Second Half | 38 | 33 |
| Field Goal Percentage | 47.8% | 39.7% |
| Three-Point Percentage | 34.5% | 32.0% |
| Total Rebounds | 42 | 33 |
| Turnovers | 14 | 21 |
| Steals | 18 | 8 |
UVA Standouts
Thijs De Ridder: 24 points, 9 rebounds, 2 steals
Sam Lewis: 20 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals
Johann Grünloh: 11 points, 9 rebounds
Chance Mallory: 4 steals
What’s Next?
Virginia returns to John Paul Jones Arena on Friday, November 6, to host Northeastern at 5 p.m.
With an impressive season-opening victory, the Cavaliers demonstrated their depth, defensive intensity and offensive firepower.
The performance offered an early glimpse of Virginia’s potential as the Cavaliers begin their pursuit of another successful ACC season.
Final: No. 9 Virginia 89, Drexel 60.
