Virginia Basketball: 2022-23 season preview and outlook for Cavaliers

Key Reserves

Forward – Ben Vander Plas (Senior)

After four seasons at Ohio, Vander Plas will spend his final season with the Cavaliers, adding depth to this frontcourt. As a junior, he scored 17 points against the Cavaliers in that upset Tourney win and was named First Team All-MAC last year, averaging 14.3 points and 6.8 rebounds for the Bobcats.

Guard – Taine Murray (Sophomore)

Murray is one of the young pieces that this program is hoping can take that next step forward, having gotten limited chances as a reserve last season. He’s a former 4-star prospect from New Zealand who has the potential to become an important shooter off the bench this season for Virginia.

Guard – Isaac McKneely (Freshman)

This 6’4 combo guard from West Virginia is one of three Top 70 recruits from last year’s class. McKneely profiles as a strong athlete who can play both backcourt positions with very solid shooting numbers. We’ll have to see how he’s utilized as a freshman, but he looks to have the skill to be another great defender in this Cavaliers system.

Guard – Ryan Dunn (Freshman)

A 4-star wing from New York, Dunn stands tall at 6’8 and has the ability to hit shots from all over the court. His quick release got college scouts excited. He ranks as the lowest of Virginia’s four freshman recruits, which should tell you about the depth and talent in this new class.

Center – Francisco Caffaro (Senior)

This 7’1 big man from Argentina split time with Shedrick in the post last season and might play the same role again this year. Caffaro isn’t exactly known for his offensive contributions, but has immense size and rates as an impressive defender and rebounder; having a 7-footer in relief at center is never a bad thing.

Forward – Isaac Traudt (Freshman)

The highest-rated recruit from Nebraska, Traudt is a 6’10 power forward who can move around the court and be a productive piece for the Cavaliers. He’ll need to add strength to fill out his frame, and he’s not exactly a dominant interior piece, but he can move the floor and pop out to hit long-range shots, something that will give nightmares to opposing defenses.

Guard/Forward – Leon Bond III (Freshman)

This 4-star wing from Milwaukee projects as a potential future star for the Cavaliers, with a great combination of athleticism and strength. Bond isn’t the prospect who’s going to be putting up impressive outside shooting numbers, but he’s a powerful force, especially in the fast break and as a versatile weapon on defense.