The Virginia Cavaliers are set to face off against the SMU Mustangs on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 2:15 PM ET. Fans can catch the game live on The CW network, through television providers or the CW app.
Taking place in Dallas, Texas, this matchup marks an exciting start to Virginia’s 72nd season of ACC play. The Cavaliers come into the game with a remarkable streak, having won 16 consecutive ACC openers, a feat that former head coach Tony Bennett accomplished perfectly during his tenure. Historically, Virginia holds a record of 36-35 in ACC openers.
Notable performances should be expected from Isaac McKneely, who currently leads the team with an impressive 13.1 points per game while maintaining an outstanding 50% shooting percentage from three-point range. In the previous season’s ACC opener against Syracuse, McKneely showcased his talent by scoring 22 points and hitting six 3-pointers.
The Cavaliers are statistically showing improvement this season, with a notable increase in shooting percentages compared to the previous year, with 44.9% from the field and 38.7% from beyond the arc.
Virginia’s last outing against the No. 13 Florida Gators ended in a loss, but Elijah Saunders’ career-high 19 points and McKneely’s contribution of 12 points indicate that the team has the potential to bounce back.
Fans are encouraged to engage with the game through social media, where staff members will be sharing live reactions and post-game analysis. Remember to participate in the game thread to share your thoughts before, during, and after the event.
In conclusion, this matchup brings not only an opportunity for fans to support their team but also a chance for the Cavaliers to demonstrate their resilience and skills on the court. With their track record in ACC openers and individual players stepping up, there is plenty of hope for a strong performance against SMU.