The Virginia Cavaliers have landed a major addition to their frontcourt through the transfer portal, signaling a fresh start for the program following a season of major transition and disappointment.
A Rough Year for Virginia Basketball
The 2024–25 season was one of the most turbulent in recent memory for the Virginia Cavaliers. Just 18 days before the season tipped off, longtime head coach Tony Bennett shocked fans by announcing his retirement at the age of 55. His departure marked the end of a legendary run that included a national championship and several ACC titles.
In response, Virginia quickly promoted former assistant Ron Sanchez to the head coaching position. But the transition proved rocky.
Under Sanchez, the Cavaliers struggled mightily. They ended the year with a 15–17 overall record, including an 8–12 mark in ACC play. The lack of consistency, especially on defense—a trademark of Bennett’s teams—was apparent throughout the season.
After just one year at the helm, the university decided to part ways with Sanchez, prompting yet another leadership change.
Ryan Odom Takes Over
In hopes of rebuilding the program, Virginia hired Ryan Odom as its new head coach. Odom brings a strong resume to Charlottesville, having previously led successful stints at UMBC, Utah State, Charlotte, and most recently VCU.
Odom’s most recent campaign with VCU saw the Rams finish with an impressive 27–7 record, including an NCAA Tournament appearance. His hiring is seen as a stabilizing move for a program that desperately needed direction.
Busy Offseason in the Transfer Portal
Since Odom’s arrival, Virginia has wasted no time reshaping its roster. The Cavaliers have been extremely active in the transfer portal, both in losing and gaining players.
So far, 11 players have exited the program through the portal. Despite the losses, Virginia’s coaching staff has responded aggressively—signing six new players to reload the roster and bring fresh talent into the system.
The most notable name in this new wave of additions is Ugonna Onyenso, a 7-foot center who arrives with high expectations.
Ugonna Onyenso’s Transfer Journey
Onyenso was once a highly touted recruit, ranked in the top 35 nationally coming out of high school. He began his college basketball career at Kentucky, where he played in 40 games across two seasons and started 14 of them. Known for his size and rim protection, he showed flashes of potential during his time with the Wildcats.
In 2024, Onyenso transferred to Kansas State, seeking more playing time and a better fit. However, his role remained limited. He averaged 2.8 points and 2.4 rebounds per game in just 11.1 minutes of action over 24 games, including two starts.
Now, he’s hoping for a fresh start with Virginia—his third program in as many years. Despite his limited production at Kansas State, Onyenso remains a promising prospect with the physical tools to be a difference-maker, especially under a coach like Odom who values defensive intensity.
CBS Confirms the Commitment
The news of Onyenso’s decision to commit to Virginia was first reported by Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports. The Cavaliers are optimistic that the 7-footer will thrive in a new environment and provide much-needed size and defense in the paint.
With his shot-blocking ability and rebounding potential, Onyenso could play a key role in Virginia’s frontcourt rotation next season. If he develops offensively, he has the upside to become one of the more impactful big men in the ACC.
Virginia’s Transfer Class Grows
Onyenso is the sixth player to join Virginia this offseason via the transfer portal. He joins a group that includes:
- Devin Tillis
- Dallin Hall
- Martin Carrere
- Sam Lewis
- Jacari White
Each of these additions brings something different to the table. Hall, for example, is a proven guard with high-level experience, while Tillis adds toughness and depth on the wing.
According to 247 Sports, Virginia’s incoming transfer class currently ranks 48th in the nation. While not elite, that ranking reflects a solid effort to quickly retool the roster under a new head coach in a competitive transfer landscape.
Odom’s Track Record Brings Hope
One reason for optimism among Virginia fans is Ryan Odom’s coaching history. With a career record of 222–127, Odom has consistently won at every stop. His most famous moment came in 2018 when he led UMBC to a historic upset over No. 1 seed Virginia—ironically, the very program he now leads.
Odom has made four NCAA Tournament appearances, and he’s built a reputation for getting the most out of his players. His teams are known for discipline, ball movement, and toughness—traits that Virginia hopes to reestablish after a forgettable 2024–25 campaign.
A Rebuild Through the Transfer Portal
Like many programs around the country, Virginia is using the transfer portal as a key tool to reshape its future. While high school recruiting remains important, the portal offers a quicker way to plug holes, add experience, and bring in players who can contribute immediately.
For Odom, the portal represents an opportunity to put his stamp on the roster. And with talented players like Onyenso now on board, the Cavaliers could be poised for a turnaround in the 2025–26 season.
Looking Ahead
Virginia fans should expect more moves as the offseason continues. The coaching staff may still pursue additional talent through the transfer portal or international routes. But the commitment from Ugonna Onyenso marks a positive step forward in what has been a chaotic year.
If Odom can blend these new pieces together and restore the culture of winning in Charlottesville, the Cavaliers could return to relevance in the ACC sooner than expected.
For now, all eyes will be on how this rebuilt roster performs when the new season tips off later this year.