CHARLOTTESVILLE — A highly successful first season at Virginia has earned men’s basketball coach Ryan Odom a new contract.
Virginia announced Tuesday that Odom has signed a one-year contract extension, keeping him under contract through the 2031-32 season.
“Coach Odom has made a distinct and immediate impact on our program,” UVa athletic director Carla Williams said in a statement. “He has instilled a strong sense of family and established a deep connection to the University for the young men within our program. Ryan is a fierce competitor who is committed to the values and legacy of this storied program.”
Williams hired Odom in March 2025, and he wasted little time turning the Cavaliers into one of the ACC’s top teams.
In his first season, Odom guided the Hoos to a 30-6 overall record, including a 15-3 mark in ACC play that resulted in a second-place conference finish. Virginia also advanced to the ACC championship game before suffering a narrow defeat against national powerhouse Duke. The Cavaliers then reached the Round of 32 in the NCAA Tournament, while Odom was named a semifinalist for Naismith National Coach of the Year.
“He is a winner and we are excited about the future of Virginia Men’s Basketball under his leadership,” Williams added.
According to a copy of Odom’s original offer sheet, his initial contract was a six-year agreement that ran through the 2030-31 season. He earned $3.25 million before incentives during the 2025-26 campaign.
The financial details of the new extension have not yet been released. The Daily Progress has submitted a FOIA request seeking a copy of the updated contract.
“This extension reflects the hard work and commitment of our players, coaches and staff,” Odom said, “as well as the incredible support we receive from the entire UVa community. Virginia is a truly special place, and my family and I are proud to call Charlottesville home. We are excited about what lies ahead and remain committed to building a program that represents this university the right way.”
Virginia is the fifth head-coaching stop of Odom’s career. At each of his previous four programs — VCU, Utah State, UMBC and Division II Lenoir-Rhyne — he guided his team to the NCAA Tournament.
Heading into the upcoming season, the Cavaliers are expected to land somewhere in the preseason top 10 to top 15 nationally. Virginia returns several important pieces, including forward Thijs De Ridder, wing Sam Lewis, guard Chance Mallory and center Johann Grünloh.
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