Virginia’s Depth Is a Blessing… and a Late-Game Mystery Heading Toward March
Virginia’s depth has carried the Cavaliers through the grind of the season, keeping legs fresh and confidence high across the rotation. But as March approaches and games tighten, one lingering question remains: who gets the ball when everything is on the line? With several players capable of stepping up — and none fully separating as the clear closer — Virginia’s greatest strength may also be its biggest late-game mystery. How that question gets answered could define the Cavaliers’ postseason run.
Jay Ballard
2/8/20262 min read
Over the first twenty-three games, Virginia has shown why depth can be a powerful weapon. It has also revealed the thin line between strength and uncertainty when the game is on the line. The Cavaliers have played with energy and a wide rotation, but one question keeps coming up: when March arrives, who is the closer?
Depth has become a defining trait of this team. On many nights, it feels like anyone in the rotation can step up. That keeps legs fresh and allows the staff to adjust to matchups. It also creates a roster full of players who believe they can contribute.
The issue shows up in the final minutes.
Close games demand clarity. They demand a go-to option. Virginia, at least over this recent stretch, has not always shown a clear answer.
Sam Lewis has looked like that answer at times. He has hit big shots and played with calm confidence late in games. When Virginia needs a bucket, he often looks like the most natural choice. His shooting gives the offense a needed spark.
Malik Thomas belongs in that conversation too. When he is aggressive, he can carry the offense. He has the scoring ability and the mindset to take over. The challenge is that he has also spent long stretches on the bench in certain games. It is hard to be the late-game option without rhythm.
Then there is Tjhis De Ridder, who has shown both sides. Some nights he looks like an All-ACC caliber forward. Other nights, like the recent outing against Syracuse, he can struggle to make an impact. The talent is clear. The consistency is the question.
Virginia also has two interesting options at different stages.
Chance “Prince” Mallory is the young wildcard. He brings confidence and energy that can shine in big moments. He also brings the normal ups and downs of youth. Giving him the ball late could pay off, or it could lead to mistakes.
Devin Tillis offers the veteran presence. He understands late-game situations and can provide steadiness. He may not always be the flashiest option, but experience matters when possessions get tight.
That leaves Virginia in a unique spot. Depth can carry a team through the ACC season. It can also blur roles and delay the rise of a true closer.
March will force that decision.
The tournament is about final possessions and clear trust. Right now, Virginia has several possible answers and no single one.
That could be a problem, or it could become a strength. A deep roster means more players ready for big moments. It also means the script is still unfinished.
If a closer emerges, this depth becomes a weapon. If the question remains, it could become the reason the season ends early.