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Virginia Basketball: 5 reasons why the Cavaliers can win the ACC in 2018-19

By Lukas Harkins

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA - MARCH 3: Justice Bartley #2 of the Virginia Cavaliers and the rest of the bench cheers in the second half during a game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at John Paul Jones Arena on March 3, 2018 in Charlottesville, Virginia. Virginia defeated Notre Dame 62-57. (Photo by Ryan M. Kelly/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA - MARCH 3: Justice Bartley #2 of the Virginia Cavaliers and the rest of the bench cheers in the second half during a game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at John Paul Jones Arena on March 3, 2018 in Charlottesville, Virginia. Virginia defeated Notre Dame 62-57. (Photo by Ryan M. Kelly/Getty Images) /
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CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – JANUARY 9: The Virginia Cavaliers bench cheers. (Photo by Ryan M. Kelly/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – JANUARY 9: The Virginia Cavaliers bench cheers. (Photo by Ryan M. Kelly/Getty Images) /

3. Scoring firepower is there

This could quite simply be the best offensive team that Tony Bennett has had in some time. Now, I’m not going to go out on a limb and say it will be an elite offensive team that can rain down a firestorm of points but there is plenty of offensive firepower. Unlike some years in the past where UVA has seemingly only had one elite offensive option (see Brogdon, Malcolm), this time around they should have a few guys who can go get their own buckets when needed.

Even though Devon Hall is gone, two youngsters look poised to take on huge offensive roles and emerge as stars this season. First, there is rising junior Kyle Guy. An AP Third-Team All-American last season, Guy is well-known as an offensive threat. During his sophomore campaign a year ago, the 6-foot-3 guard posted 14.1 points per game while connecting on 39.2% of his 3-pointers. In addition, it is important to keep in mind that UVA plays at a relatively slow pace. He led the team both in points scored (481) and 3-pointers made (83). With an entire offseason to hone his craft, he could post 15+ points per game as a junior.

In addition, Ty Jerome returns after averaging 10.6 points and 3.9 assists per game last season. A solid playmaker and scorer, the 6-foot-5 rising junior is excellent. When it comes to late-game situations, having a player who takes care of the ball and knocks down free throws can be vital. Jerome, who turned the ball over 1.6 times per game and shot 90.5% from the charity stripe last season, fits the bill. He also shot 37.9% from distance, making him more than just a reasonable threat.

However, even with these two, it is rising sophomore De’Andre Hunter who could emerge as Virginia’s best player during this upcoming campaign. An excellent two-way guard, Hunter was easily one of the best sixth men in the country prior to going down with an injury before the NCAA Tournament. With an entire offseason to get healthy and improve as a player, Hunter should develop into a go-to offensive player who can lock up defensively as well.

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