Tennessee Volunteers vs Virginia Cavaliers Prediction: NCAA Tournament Second Round
Updated 09 Jul, 2026
The NCAA Tournament continues with a compelling second-round clash as Tennessee takes on Virginia on Sunday. Both teams advanced with convincing first-round efforts, though in very different styles. Tennessee overwhelmed a high-scoring opponent with defense, while Virginia leaned on balanced scoring to seize control late. Before tip-off in the second round of March Madness, continue reading to get my Tennessee vs Virginia prediction.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AVOjdRk5CU8
Virginia Cavaliers
Tennessee Volunteers
Stat | Tennessee | Virginia |
|---|---|---|
Points per game | 79.4 | 80.7 |
Points allowed per game | 69.0 | 68.5 |
Team Field Goal % | 46% | 46% |
Rebounds per game | 42.6 | 40.2 |
Assists per game | 17.0 | 16.4 |
Tennessee’s defensive showing in the opening round stands out as the most important factor entering this game. Holding a team that averaged over 90 points to just 56 demonstrates a level of defensive control that can carry over to the second round, especially against a Virginia offense that already operates at a slower pace. The Volunteers also dominate the glass, which limits second chances and can help them close out games.
Virginia has the discipline and guard play to keep this game competitive, but the lack of consistent scoring bursts could become an issue if Tennessee dictates tempo early. If the Volunteers can force contested perimeter shots and maintain their rebounding edge, they should control the flow. Expect a lower-scoring game where each possession matters, with the Vols covering the number and making it to the Sweet 16.
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