By Ryan Flynn
JerryRatcliffe.com Staff Writer

Photo: UVA Athletics

Optimism is radiating around Grounds this year for Virginia women’s basketball. Looking to build off the momentum of a historic NCAA Tournament run that saw the Cavaliers upset Georgia and No. 7 Iowa to make it to the Sweet 16, first-year head coach Aaron Roussell inherits a squad with five returning players, including guard Kymora Johnson and a host of incoming players.

UVA plays three games next week: Monday against Maryland Eastern Shore, Thursday at Davidson and Sunday at home against William & Mary.

To read the rest of this article and even more award-winning coverage on the UVA athletics department, including its nationally-ranked football and basketball programs, be sure to subscribe to “Cavalier Exclusive” to follow all of Virginia Sports Hall Of Famer Jerry “Hootie” Ratcliffe’s analysis and content. It’s the best in the business for Wahoo Fans!

   Navigating: Basketball

What Excites Odom About This Year’s Team? Speed And Defense

Ryan Odom can’t help but get excited during practice drills when he observes the speed of his basketball team.

Johnson, Mallory appear on preseason watch lists for nation’s top point guards

Chance Mallory was named to the watch list for the Bob Cousy Award, while Kymora Johnson was named to the Nancy Lieberman Award watch list.