Oregon vs. Virginia: Key storylines for 2019 Sweet Sixteen matchup
Can Oregon stay hot from deep?
The Oregon Ducks aren’t one of the nation’s best three-point shooting teams. Overall, Oregon ranks No. 136 in three-point percentage as a team. The Ducks have some capable shooters in Payton Pritchard, Victor Bailey, Louis King and Paul White. However, Oregon’s top three-point shooter was arguably Bol before he went down with an injury.
For Oregon to beat Virginia on Thursday night, the Ducks will need to stay hot from downtown. So far in the NCAA Tournament, Oregon is 20 of 40 from three-point range. If the Ducks can shoot like that against Virginia, there’s a good chance they can pull the upset.
Part of the reason for Oregon’s success as of late is how hot the Ducks have been from behind the three-point line. Can they maintain that pace against the best defensive team they’ve faced all season? One thing is for sure, UVa will force Oregon to make some shots. Virginia typically doesn’t allow penetration and forces opponents to shoot a high percentage from three-point range. Usually, it doesn’t happen and Virginia wins with ease.
How Oregon shoots from long-range could be where this game is decided.