NCAA Preview: Virginia Cavaliers

Despite a lack of Washington area sports powerhouses involved in the NCAA tournament, one team in 2013-14 has stood alone and that is the number 1 seeded University of Virginia Cavaliers.  After being ranked fourth in the ACC pre-season polls, the Cavs have shocked America capturing their first ACC tournament title since 1976 to go along with their number 1 seed.  Virginia has completed their 28-6 regular season record due in part to distributed scoring, solid defense, and senior leadership.

Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

The Cavs will have to navigate their way through a difficult East region that will play host to the likes of traditional powerhouses Michigan State, University of North Carolina, Villanova, and Connecticut.  If there’s one thing, however, this group has proven it’s that they’re ready to beat any team in the country.

Joe Harris leads the bunch and as the shooting guard has averaged 11.7 points and 2.6 assists per game earning him second team all conference honors.

The improvements made in Charlottesville can be primarily contributed to head coach Tony Bennett, who has taken the perennial cellar dweller back to their elite status.  After restoring Washington State’s basketball prowl us, Bennett moved to Virginia and has created top program in the process.

On behalf off all Washington area sports, I wish the University of Virginia Cavaliers the best of luck as they begin their quest to capture a National Championship.