A Renewed In‑State Rivalry
On November 17, 2026, the Virginia Cavaliers will travel to face Old Dominion in a much‑anticipated non‑conference showdown, reviving a rivalry that last intersected in 2012.
The Cavaliers hold a 9‑5 edge in the series, but the last meeting saw the Monarchs edge out a 63‑61 victory, a narrow margin that still fuels the competitive spirit of both programs.
A Challenging Non‑Conference Slate
Virginia’s 2026‑27 non‑conference schedule is stacked with marquee matchups, including contests against Maryland and UConn, as well as participation in the Battle 4 Atlantis tournament in the Bahamas, underscoring the team’s ambitious roadmap.
Adding to the excitement, the Cavaliers will field a roster that returns all eligible players from the previous season, positioning them as one of only two power‑conference programs with that continuity heading into the new campaign.
Among the notable names on the roster are alumni and former standouts such as Joe Harris, Dimitri Batten, Mike Jones and Ryan Odom, who bring experience and depth to the squad.
Monarchs on the Move
Old Dominion, having navigated two conference realignments since 2012 and most recently joining the Sun Belt, enters the game after a 12‑21 season in 2025‑26, a record that reflects both rebuilding efforts and the challenges of a shifting landscape.
What to Watch
Fans can expect a fast‑paced contest that will serve as a litmus test for Virginia’s depth and Old Dominion’s resilience, with the outcome potentially shaping early season rankings and momentum heading into conference play.