Virginia Edges Miami 86-83: Mallory Free Throws Seal Win | NCAA Basketball

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — No. 14 Virginia narrowly defeated Miami 86-83 on Saturday, securing a crucial win thanks to three free throws made by Chance Mallory with just 3.6 seconds remaining in the game.

A Nail-Biting Finish

The Cavaliers (24-3, 12-2 Atlantic Coast) extended their winning streak to eight games, while simultaneously ending Miami’s four-game win streak. The game featured 14 ties and 12 lead changes, highlighting the intense competition between the two ACC teams.

Key Performances

Jacari White led Virginia’s bench with 17 points, successfully making five 3-pointers. Sam Lewis contributed 15 points, and Thijs De Ridder added 14 to the Cavaliers’ total. Notably, all 12 of Chance Mallory’s points came in the second half.

Miami’s Strong Effort

Despite the loss, Miami (21-6, 10-4) put up a strong fight. Shelton Henderson and Tre Donaldson each scored 18 points for the Hurricanes. Miami dominated the boards, out-rebounding Virginia 30-23, and held a significant advantage in second-chance points, 18-2.

Did You Know? UVA honored former coach Tony Bennett in a pregame ceremony, naming the court at John Paul Jones Arena after him.

Implications for the ACC Standings

Virginia’s win solidifies its position in second place in the conference standings, creating separation from Miami, which sits in third. The victory also denied Miami a valuable “Quad 1” win, which carries significant weight in NCAA tournament selection.

Looking Ahead

Virginia is scheduled to host N.C. State on Tuesday. Miami is slated to visit Florida State on the same day. The outcomes of these games could further reshape the ACC standings. A continued winning streak for Virginia could strengthen its position as a top contender in the conference, while Miami will likely seek to rebound and regain momentum.

Expert Insight: The close nature of this game underscores the competitiveness of the ACC this season. Virginia’s ability to secure a win despite Miami’s rebounding advantage and strong offensive performances demonstrates their resilience and ability to perform under pressure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the final score of the game?

The final score was Virginia 86, Miami 83.

Who scored the most points for Virginia?

Jacari White scored the most points for Virginia with 17.

What is next for Miami?

Miami will visit Florida State on Tuesday.

How important are late-game free throws in determining the outcome of college basketball games?