Controversial As the Cavaliers just in landed four major transfer commitments from rivals

Following a relatively quiet start to the offseason, the floodgates of the transfer portal opened for the Virginia men’s basketball team, drastically altering the outlook for the upcoming 2024-2025 season. The Cavaliers secured commitments from four transfers in just four days, culminating with Vanderbilt forward Carter Lang, who reportedly joined as a walk-on.

With the dust settling from this whirlwind recruitment period, let’s reassess Virginia’s roster for the upcoming season. Here’s a summary of the roster changes:

Departures:

1. Dante Harris (RS Jr.) – transferred
2. Reece Beekman (Sr.) – entered NBA Draft
3. Jordan Minor (Gr.) – graduated
4. Leon Bond III (RS Fr.) – transferred

Virginia’s scholarship roster for 2024-2025, categorized by position and detailing remaining eligibility:

Point Guard: Jalen Warley (1 year), Christian Bliss (4 years) Shooting Guard: Isaac McKneely (2 years), Elijah Gertrude (3 years), Ishan Sharma (4 years) Small Forward: Andrew Rohde (2 years), Taine Murray (1 year) Power Forward: TJ Power (3 years), Elijah Saunders (2 years), Jacob Cofie (4 years) Center: Blake Buchanan (3 years), Anthony Robinson (4 years)

Scholarships used: 12/13 Open scholarship: 1

The most significant impact of the transfer additions is the reinforcement of Virginia’s power forward position. With Ryan Dunn entering the NBA Draft and Jake Groves graduating, the Cavaliers had only incoming freshman Jacob Cofie in that role. Now, with the acquisitions of TJ Power and Elijah Saunders, Virginia has bolstered its options at the 4 spot.

Carter Lang’s addition could also prove valuable, offering depth as a forward and bringing local talent to the team.Jalen Warley brings experience and size to the guard position, potentially serving as a point guard for the Cavaliers.

Regarding the final open scholarship, attention is on Kansas State transfer guard Dai Dai Ames, who visited UVA recently. Ames could provide additional depth and shooting skills to the team. If no commitment is secured for the upcoming season, the scholarship may go to Carter Lang.