The Cavaliers are entering the 2026 campaign with a roster that has been reshaped by both necessity and opportunity. After a 1‑9 record in 2025, the team faced a wave of injuries that forced a young lineup onto the field, but the experience gained has set the stage for a more seasoned group this year.
Head coach Gary Bass, now in his second year at UVA Wise, has repeatedly praised the character of his players. He notes that the leadership displayed by the underclassmen has been a cornerstone of the team's development, and that the work ethic of the squad has been evident throughout the offseason.
A Road Test to Start
The season will open on the road, with the Cavaliers traveling to face Presbyterian on August 27. The matchup offers an early benchmark for a squad that is eager to translate practice progress into game‑day results.
Bass and his staff have emphasized continuity in preparation, focusing on fundamentals and the chemistry that has built over the past months. If the team can carry that momentum forward, the 2026 schedule could mark a turning point for a program that has faced its share of challenges.