Charlottesville, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – The University of Virginia basketball team kicked off the new year with an impressive comeback, defeating NC State 70-67 after trailing by 14 points in the second half. 

Dr. Bobby Chhabra, chair of UVA’s sports medicine department, joined Morning News to analyze the win and discuss the team’s progress under interim coach Ron Sanchez. “Our perimeter defense really stepped up… we really shut them down in the second half,” he noted, crediting the team’s adjustments for shutting down NC State’s shooting momentum. 

Looking ahead, Dr. Chhabra expressed optimism about Sanchez’s potential, saying  “I just wish people would stop talking about replacing Ron now, given the opportunity to show what he can do as head coach… Give him some time to gel and learn how to play the defense and learn how to play the offense together before we start writing Ron off.” He also praised the team’s determination and commitment to working together, qualities he believes will be essential as Sanchez continues to develop in his role. 

UVA will face Louisville on Saturday, with hopes high for another strong performance under Sanchez’s leadership, as fans eagerly anticipate the team continuing their upward momentum. 

Listen here for the full conversation: