
The University of Virginia's basketball team, the Cavaliers, has experienced a fair amount of success over the years, winning 34 NCAA team national championships as of March 2025, as well as nine non-NCAA titles. The Cavaliers have appeared in the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) 14 times, winning twice in 1980 and 1992. However, the team's most notable achievement was winning the 2019 NCAA Tournament, marking the program's first-ever NCAA Championship.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of NCAA Team National Championships | 34 |
| Year of first NCAA Championship win | 2019 |
| Coach during first NCAA Championship win | Tony Bennett |
| Score during first NCAA Championship win | 85-77 |
| Team defeated during first NCAA Championship win | Texas Tech |
| NIT Championships | 1980, 1992 |
| Number of ACC Season Titles | 11 |
| Number of NCAA and NBA recognized players | 7 |
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What You'll Learn
- The University of Virginia has won 34 NCAA team national championships
- The Cavaliers won the 2019 NCAA DI men's basketball championship
- UVA has also won 9 non-NCAA titles
- The Cavaliers have appeared in the National Invitation Tournament 14 times
- The 2019 championship solidified UVA's reputation as a 'basketball school'

The University of Virginia has won 34 NCAA team national championships
The University of Virginia has a rich history of success in collegiate athletics, with a total of 34 NCAA team national championships across various sports. This impressive tally includes achievements in boxing, lacrosse, soccer, and, of course, basketball.
The Virginia Cavaliers men's basketball team, often referred to as UVA, has experienced both triumphs and setbacks over the years. One of their most notable achievements was winning the 2019 NCAA Tournament, marking the program's first NCAA Championship. This victory was especially meaningful as it came just a year after a historic loss to UMBC, where they became the first No. 1 seed to lose to a No. 16 seed in the NCAA tournament. ESPN hailed Virginia's redemption in the 2018-19 season as "the most redemptive season in the history of college basketball."
The 2019 championship game against Texas Tech was a thrilling overtime victory, with Virginia ultimately prevailing 85-77. The Cavaliers' success that year was characterized by their efficiency, ranking second nationally in adjusted offensive efficiency and fifth in adjusted defensive efficiency. Despite their slow tempo, they outscored their opponents by a significant margin, showcasing their ability to capitalize on opportunities.
The University of Virginia's basketball success extends beyond just the 2019 championship. They have appeared in the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) 14 times, winning the championship in 1980 and 1992. Additionally, they have achieved regular season titles, ACC championships, and have cultivated talented players who have gone on to succeed in the NCAA and NBA.
The University of Virginia's 34 NCAA team national championships, including the 2019 men's basketball victory, showcase the school's commitment to athletic excellence and serve as a testament to the hard work and dedication of its student-athletes and coaching staff.
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The Cavaliers won the 2019 NCAA DI men's basketball championship
The Virginia Cavaliers men's basketball team has had a rich history, with several notable achievements over the years. However, one of their most remarkable accomplishments was winning the 2019 NCAA DI Men's Basketball Championship, a victory that not only added to their list of successes but also carried a significant amount of symbolism and redemption.
The 2019 NCAA DI Men's Basketball Championship game took place in Minneapolis, and it was there that the Cavaliers, led by coach Tony Bennett, secured the coveted title. This win held particular significance as it came just a year after the Cavaliers suffered a historic loss in the 2018 NCAA Tournament, becoming the first No. 1 seed to lose to a No. 16 seed. The 2019 championship game against Texas Tech went into overtime, with the Cavaliers ultimately prevailing 85-77. This triumph marked the program's first NCAA Championship and served as a testament to the team's resilience and determination.
The road to redemption for the Cavaliers began with a strong start to the 2018-19 season. They went 31-3 in the regular season, finishing atop the ACC standings with a remarkable 17-1 record. This early success set the tone for the rest of the season and built momentum heading into the NCAA Tournament. The Cavaliers entered the tournament as a No. 1 seed in the South Region, and despite some close calls and tough competition, they managed to navigate their way through to the National Championship game.
The championship game against Texas Tech was a back-and-forth battle that required every ounce of effort from the Cavaliers. The game went into overtime, and it was anyone's game until the very end. The Cavaliers, however, showed tremendous composure and determination, ultimately pulling away with the victory. This win not only rewarded the Cavaliers for their hard work but also validated their style of play. Despite being ranked last in adjusted tempo nationally, the Cavaliers proved that efficiency and strong defence could be just as effective in achieving success.
The 2019 NCAA DI Men's Basketball Championship was a significant milestone for the Virginia Cavaliers, solidifying their place in the sport's history. It also served as a testament to the team's culture and mindset, which had been cultivated by Coach Tony Bennett. The Cavaliers' redemption story captured the imagination of fans and the media alike, with ESPN describing their season as "the most redemptive season in the history of college basketball." The victory not only brought pride to the University of Virginia but also demonstrated the power of perseverance and belief in oneself.
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UVA has also won 9 non-NCAA titles
The University of Virginia (UVA) Cavaliers men's basketball team has a rich history of success, including winning the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship in 2019. This victory solidified UVA's reputation as a "'basketball school," with a slow but highly efficient playing style.
While the 2019 NCAA Championship is a notable highlight, UVA has also achieved success in other tournaments, accumulating nine non-NCAA titles as of March 2025. These non-NCAA titles demonstrate the team's consistent excellence and ability to adapt to different competitions.
One of the notable non-NCAA achievements was in the National Invitation Tournament (NIT). The Cavaliers have appeared in the NIT 14 times and were crowned champions in 1980 and 1992, showcasing their prowess in this prestigious tournament.
In addition to the NIT, UVA has also made their mark in the College Basketball Invitational (CBI). They participated in the inaugural CBI in 2008, showcasing their willingness to take on new challenges and compete against the best.
The Cavaliers have also found success in regular-season conference play. They have won 11 ACC season titles, showcasing their dominance within their conference. This consistent performance has contributed to their reputation as a force to be reckoned with in college basketball.
The UVA men's basketball team's success extends beyond just winning championships. They have produced numerous players who have gone on to excel in the NBA, such as Ralph Sampson and Malcolm Brogdon, further emphasizing the program's ability to develop top-tier talent.
In conclusion, while UVA's 2019 NCAA Championship is a significant highlight, their success extends beyond this single victory. With nine non-NCAA titles, regular-season conference championships, and players excelling at the professional level, the UVA Cavaliers men's basketball team has established themselves as a consistent force in the world of college basketball.
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The Cavaliers have appeared in the National Invitation Tournament 14 times
The University of Virginia (UVA) Cavaliers have a rich basketball history, with multiple championship titles and impressive tournament runs. One notable aspect of their success is their appearance in the National Invitation Tournament (NIT).
The Cavaliers have a long history of participation in the NIT, having qualified for this prestigious tournament a total of 14 times. This consistency in reaching the NIT showcases the team's strength and resilience over the years. Their first NIT appearance laid the foundation for future success, as they went on to establish themselves as a formidable force in college basketball.
In the realm of college basketball, the NIT is highly regarded as an important tournament that provides teams with an opportunity to showcase their skills and compete at a high level. The Cavaliers' 14 appearances in this tournament underscore their prominence in the sport and their ability to consistently rise to the challenge. Their performance in the NIT has been remarkable, with a combined record of 19-12.
The Cavaliers' NIT journey includes two championship titles, the first of which was claimed in 1980. This initial NIT championship served as a pivotal moment in the team's history, setting the tone for future accomplishments. Over a decade later, in 1992, the Cavaliers once again demonstrated their prowess by securing their second NIT championship title. These victories not only bolstered the team's reputation but also fueled their determination to excel in other prestigious tournaments.
The Cavaliers' NIT appearances and championship wins have played a significant role in shaping the team's legacy. These experiences provided a platform for the team to gain national recognition and establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in college basketball. The NIT served as a springboard, motivating the Cavaliers to strive for even greater heights and ultimately leading them to achieve their first NCAA Championship in 2019.
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The 2019 championship solidified UVA's reputation as a 'basketball school'
The University of Virginia (UVA) has a rich history of success in college athletics, with 34 NCAA team national championships as of March 2025, as well as nine non-NCAA titles. The men's basketball team has played a significant role in this success, winning the NCAA Tournament in 2019. This victory solidified UVA's reputation as a basketball school and added to the university's impressive athletic accomplishments.
The 2019 NCAA Tournament championship was a historic moment for the Virginia Cavaliers men's basketball team and the university as a whole. The Cavaliers, led by coach Tony Bennett, won their first NCAA Championship title, defeating Texas Tech 85-77 in an overtime thriller. This victory was especially sweet for the team and its fans, as it came just a year after a devastating loss in the 2018 NCAA Tournament, where they became the first No. 1 seed to be upset by a No. 16 seed.
The 2018-2019 season will forever be remembered as one of redemption and resilience for the Cavaliers. ESPN even dubbed it "the most redemptive season in the history of college basketball." The team's ability to bounce back from disappointment and secure the national championship demonstrated the program's tenacity and determination. This win was the culmination of years of hard work and dedication by Coach Bennett and his players, who had steadily built a successful program since his arrival in 2009.
The 2019 championship run also dispelled misconceptions about the tempo and style of play needed to win a title. The Cavaliers, despite ranking last in adjusted tempo nationally, showcased an efficient and effective style of play. They were ranked second in adjusted offensive efficiency and fifth in adjusted defensive efficiency, outscoring their opponents by an impressive average margin. This strategic approach, often described as an "underdog" style, became synonymous with UVA basketball and further cemented their reputation as a force to be reckoned with on the court.
The triumph of the 2019 championship team left a lasting impact on the university and its basketball program. It boosted UVA's reputation as a basketball school and attracted attention to their unique style of play. The win also brought individual recognition for several players, such as Kyle Guy, who was named NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player, and Coach Bennett, who reached his 300th career victory that season. The Cavaliers' redemption story inspired fans and showcased the power of perseverance in the face of adversity.
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Frequently asked questions
UVA has won 1 national championship in basketball.
UVA won the national championship in 2019.
UVA beat Texas Tech with an 85-77 overtime victory to win the national championship in 2019.
Through March 2025, UVA has won a total of 35 NCAA team national championships, plus nine non-NCAA titles.
The 2019 national championship victory was significant for UVA as it solidified the university's reputation as a "basketball school". It also dispelled misconceptions about the tempo and style of play needed to win a championship, as UVA ranked last nationally in adjusted tempo but excelled in efficiency.











































