Expert prediction
NCAA Second Round: Tennessee vs Virginia Preview, Odds, Predictions (March 22)
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
- The Volunteers blew past Miami (OH) in the Round of 64.
- The Cavaliers took down Wright State in the first round.
- This marks the 15th all-time matchup between the two ACC squads.
A great matchup graces the hardwood as the Tennessee Volunteers face the Virginia Cavaliers in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Tournament. The former comes out as the slight favorite, showing that both teams have their work cut out for them throughout one of the toughest contests on Sunday.
How to Watch
- When: Sunday, March 22, 6:10 pm ET
- Where: Xfinity Mobile Arena, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- How to Watch: TNT
NCAA Matchup Odds & Lines
| Team | Odds | Spread | Totals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | -107 | -1 | O138 |
| Virginia | -113 | +1 | U138 |
Game Preview
The Volunteers (23-11) broke the hearts of mid-major fans everywhere, blowing out Miami (OH) in a 78-56 win to advance to the second round. Ja’Kobi Gillespie finished 11-of-21 from the field, including 6-of-11 from deep to tie his career-best mark in long-range makes and match the Tennessee single-game NCAA Tournament record. J.P. Estrella recorded 14 points and a game-best 10 rebounds for his fifth collegiate double-double, plus notched a career-high two steals. Felix Okpara totaled 12 points, making all five of his field goals and both his free throws.
The Cavaliers (30-5) took down Wright State in the Round of 64, making their way to the second round. He drilled 13 3-pointers (26 attempts) and shot 51.9% from the field. Jacari White scored 26 points off the bench as he made 10 of 12 field goals, including 6 of 8 3-pointers, in a clutch performance. Sam Lewis (12 points), Malik Thomas (11 points) and Thijs De Ridder (10 points) also reached double figures for the Cavaliers.
Tennessee vs Virginia Head-to-Head
The two programs have had 14 meetings in their history, and the result is 8-6 for the Cavaliers. The last matchup was in November 2024 when Kansas won 64-42.
Tennessee vs Virginia Predictions
The winner of this matchup will take on the victors between Kentucky and Iowa State in the Sweet 16. This game stands out as a tossup with both teams wanting their place in the next round. It will come down to clutch plays on both sides of the ball, an aspect that Virginia might have better edge in. Our betting pick here is the Cavaliers to cover a 1-point spread.
- Free NCAAB pick: Virginia Cavaliers +1
NCAAB
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