Virginia Cavaliers vs Virginia Tech Hokies Picks and Predictions February 1st 2025

Virginia and Virginia Tech Look to Build Momentum in ACC Matchup

For the first time since 1970, Virginia (10-11, 3-7 ACC) and Virginia Tech (9-12, 4-6 ACC) enter their annual rivalry matchup with both teams holding losing records. Despite their struggles, both programs are coming off crucial road wins and will look to build momentum as they meet on Saturday in Charlottesville.

Virginia has won two of its last three games, fueled by elite three-point shooting, while Virginia Tech has won three of its last six, led by Tobi Lawal’s dominant inside play.

With five weeks remaining in the ACC regular season, this game is a pivotal moment for both teams to salvage their seasons and improve their conference standing.

Virginia’s Resurgence: Can the Cavaliers Keep Hitting From Deep?

Virginia has struggled for much of the season, but the Cavaliers appear to be finding a rhythm from beyond the arc. Over their past three games, they have shot 47.8% from three-point range, a massive improvement from earlier in the season.

Key Players for Virginia:

• Isaac McKneely (12.3 PPG, 42.5% 3PT) – The Cavaliers’ best shooter has made 51.6% of his threes over the last three games.
• Taine Murray (7.2 PPG, 42.9% 3PT) – A role player turned impact scorer, Murray is 5-of-7 from deep in the past three games.
• Dante Harris (9.8 PPG, 4.3 APG) – With injuries affecting Virginia’s lineup, Harris will be relied upon to run the offense effectively.

Virginia’s three-point shooting explosion was on full display Wednesday in an 82-71 road win over Miami. McKneely dropped 26 points, while Murray added a career-high 20 points and seven assists.

This offensive surge has helped Virginia compensate for the absence of starters Elijah Saunders and Andrew Rohde, both seen in walking boots this week.

“We coach them like they’re starters,” Virginia interim coach Ron Sanchez said about the team’s role players stepping up.

With injuries impacting their depth, Virginia will lean heavily on its perimeter shooting against a Virginia Tech team that has struggled to defend the three-point line.

Virginia Tech’s Growth: Tobi Lawal Emerging as a Force

Virginia Tech’s season has been filled with ups and downs, but the Hokies are showing signs of progress, winning three of their last six games.

The biggest revelation has been Tobi Lawal, who has developed into a consistent offensive threat in conference play.

Key Players for Virginia Tech:

• Tobi Lawal (15.6 PPG, 7.6 RPG in ACC play) – A rising star, Lawal has expanded his game to include three-point shooting, hitting 52% from deep in conference games.
• Sean Pedulla (13.5 PPG, 4.8 APG) – The Hokies’ primary playmaker has provided stability at point guard.
• Lynn Kidd (10.4 PPG, 6.1 RPG) – A reliable post presence who will be critical in countering Virginia’s small-ball lineup.

Virginia Tech secured an impressive 76-66 road win over Florida State on Wednesday, with Lawal dominating inside for 17 points and 13 rebounds.

Coach Mike Young was candid about Lawal’s development, joking that he never expected to be running plays for the forward to shoot threes.

“If you had told me back in September that I’d be running a play for him to shoot a three, I’d have given you an example that involves some ugly words,” Young said this week.

The Hokies will need Lawal to continue his strong play while also tightening up their perimeter defense, as Virginia’s three-point shooting poses a major challenge.

Key Matchups to Watch

Isaac McKneely vs. Virginia Tech’s Perimeter Defense

McKneely has been red-hot from deep and is Virginia’s go-to scorer. If Virginia Tech fails to close out on shooters, McKneely and Murray could have another big night.

Tobi Lawal vs. Virginia’s Small Lineup

Virginia’s frontcourt is undersized and dealing with injuries, giving Lawal an opportunity to dominate inside. If he controls the paint, Virginia Tech will have a major edge.

Turnover Battle

Both teams have struggled with turnovers, and in a close game, winning the possession battle will be crucial.

Prediction: Can Either Team Start a Late-Season Surge?

Virginia has been shooting the lights out from three, but injuries could make this game tricky. Virginia Tech has been playing better lately, and Lawal is emerging as a major weapon.

Final Score Prediction: Virginia Tech 68, Virginia 65

Virginia Tech’s inside presence and rebounding advantage should help them pull out a close win in a game that could go either way.

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Final Thoughts

• Will Virginia’s hot shooting continue?
• Can Tobi Lawal take over against Virginia’s smaller lineup?
• Which team will limit turnovers and execute down the stretch?

With both teams looking to build momentum, this rivalry matchup should be an intense, competitive battle with ACC Tournament seeding on the line.