Sun Nov 23 19:20:00 UTC 2025: Summary:

Virginia secured a hard-fought 83-78 victory against Northwestern after trailing in the second half. Thijs De Ridder led the Cavaliers with 26 points, supported by strong performances from Dallin Hall, Malik Thomas, and Chance Mallory. Virginia will face Butler, who defeated South Carolina, in their next game. Key factors for Virginia will be three-point defense, rebounding dominance, and controlling the game’s pace.

News Article:

Cavaliers Claw Back to Defeat Northwestern, Set Sights on Butler Showdown

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – The Virginia Cavaliers demonstrated grit and resilience Friday, overcoming a second-half deficit to defeat Northwestern 83-78. After leading 40-36 at halftime, UVA found themselves trailing 61-55 with less than 12 minutes remaining. The Cavaliers battled back, fueled by a crucial three-pointer from Dallin Hall with 2:31 left, giving them a 74-70 lead they wouldn’t relinquish.

Thijs De Ridder led the charge for Virginia with an impressive 26 points and 8 rebounds. He was joined in double figures by Hall (11 points), Malik Thomas (14 points), and Chance Mallory (16 points). The Cavaliers capitalized at the free-throw line, converting 30 of 36 attempts (83.3%) despite struggling from beyond the arc (5-for-24, 20.8%).

With the victory secured, the No. 35 ranked Cavaliers (5-0) now turn their attention to the No. 55 Butler Bulldogs (4-1), who also secured a win Friday, defeating South Carolina 79-72. Butler dominated the boards against the Gamecocks, outrebounding them 48-29, led by Finley Bizjack’s 18 points.

The Cavaliers and Bulldogs will face off at 2 p.m. on CBS Sports Network in what promises to be a compelling match-up. Virginia averages 89.2 points per game, compared to Butler’s 92.4, but Virginia’s defense has been slightly better.

Key factors for a Virginia victory will be their ability to defend the three-point line against Butler’s sharp shooters (40.3% as a team), control the rebounding battle, and dictate the game’s tempo. Virginia’s strong rebounding margin and offensive rebounding percentage will be tested against Butler’s equally impressive presence on the glass.

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