Virginia After Loss to Tennessee: Insights from Ryan Odom and Players
The Virginia Cavaliers fell 79–72 to the Tennessee Volunteers on Sunday, ending their NCAA Tournament run in the Second Round. Tennessee moves on to the Sweet 16 to face Iowa State in Chicago. After the game, UVA head coach Ryan Odom, along with players Thijs De Ridder and Dallin Hall, shared their thoughts on the season and the game.
Odom on the Season and Seniors
Odom expressed immense pride in his team and the season they had. He highlighted the leadership of the five seniors who helped return Virginia to the tournament, acknowledging that while the ending wasn’t ideal, the journey was meaningful. He emphasized the character and camaraderie of the players, sharing how often people outside the program praised their conduct and how the bonds formed will last a lifetime.
“I’ve never had this much fun coaching a team,” Odom said. “These guys respect everyone, they’re good people, and that made us successful on and off the court. They’ll be connected for life.”
Hall and De Ridder on Late-Game Effort
Hall explained the team’s comeback in the final six minutes, crediting a well-executed set that allowed them to attack the paint and find open shooters. De Ridder added that the game was closely contested, with the team matching Tennessee shot for shot before taking a brief lead.
When asked about a specific play, Hall clarified he touched the ball briefly before a call was challenged, noting that the game’s outcome never hinges on a single play.
Both Hall and De Ridder reflected on the bonds formed during the season. Hall described the team as “brothers for life,” while De Ridder emphasized the tight-knit culture fostered by the coaching staff and the shared experiences on and off the court.
Odom on Lessons, Program Growth, and Future
Odom underscored the importance of character and team chemistry, noting that the depth of the roster was vital but the players’ integrity and commitment were what truly drove success. He praised senior Devin Tillis for highlighting the special achievement of reaching the NCAA Tournament together.
On building the program, Odom said the team not only valued the Virginia experience but also added to its basketball legacy by winning 30 games and advancing in the tournament. Looking ahead, he noted the challenge of replacing the departing seniors but expressed confidence in the returning players and the coaching staff’s ability to continue developing the roster.
Odom also reflected on players like Hall embracing Virginia’s culture and enjoying the full college experience, from athletics to campus events, which contributed to a memorable season.
Finally, he addressed Tennessee’s size and how it affected UVA’s interior game, acknowledging the Volunteers’ physicality and strong rebounding. Despite defensive lapses in the first half, he praised his team’s resilience in the second half and Tennessee’s clutch execution down the stretch.
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