The University of North Carolina (UNC) Tar Heels are gearing up to face off against the Virginia Cavaliers in a crucial matchup on the road in Charlottesville after an open date on their ACC league schedule. Head Coach Hubert Davis expressed determination to end their eight-game road losing streak at Virginia, with the Tar Heels last securing a road victory at Virginia 12 years ago in 2012.

Big man Armando Bacot acknowledged the challenge of facing Virginia's contrasting playing style, emphasizing the importance of patience and precision in their approach. UNC, currently tied for first place in the ACC standings with Duke, holds the tiebreaker advantage over their rivals after defeating them 93-84 earlier in the season.

UNC is coming off a solid victory against Virginia Tech, entering the game against Virginia with momentum. Graduate transfer guard Cormac Ryan has been finding his rhythm from beyond the arc, contributing significantly to the team's recent successes.

Virginia, known for its defensive prowess and deliberate playing style, leads the ACC in points allowed and blocked shots. Guard Reece Beekman and forward Ryan Dunn anchor the Cavaliers' defense, while Isaac McKneely provides scoring support for the team.

UNC leads the all-time series against Virginia, but they face a tough challenge in breaking their eight-game losing streak at John Paul Jones Arena. The Tar Heels are motivated to secure a crucial road win against the Cavaliers before heading into the final stretch of their regular season games.

UNC is projected to start with Elliot Cadeau, RJ Davis, Cormac Ryan, Armando Bacot, and Harrison Ingram, while Virginia is expected to start with Reece Beekman, Andrew Rohde, Isaac McKneely, Ryan Dunn, and Jordan Minor in what promises to be an intense matchup between the two ACC powerhouses.