Virginia basketball is turning up the heat on defense just as the toughest part of the ACC schedule arrives. After a rough triple-overtime loss to Virginia Tech, the ’Hoos have jumped from 56th to 22nd in national defensive efficiency in less than two weeks. The full-court press is forcing opponents into rushed shots and turnovers, while rebounding has become a real strength—outrebounding recent opponents by nearly 12 boards per game. With players like Malik Thomas and Chance Mallory stepping up, UVA’s defensive energy is contagious. Can this new defensive edge carry them through the upcoming gauntlet of top-tier matchups? #Sports #UVABasketball #ACC