CHICAGO, IL (WSLS SPORTS) - The Cavaliers are going to the Elite 8 with great momentum after an impressive win over Iowa State. They will face a familiar opponent in fellow ACC opponent Syracuse.
Virginia's Sweet 16 victory was more than just another win that came by way of offense. Friday night they showed that they can be aggressive and get the job done on the defensive end as well. Looking ahead to Sunday's game, they know they'll have to do exactly the same and more against the two-three zone from the Orange.
"Watching film and knowing what we can do on offense but also on defense. They're dangerous so it's not just a matter of beating the zone," said Cavalier's Evan Nolte.
Meanwhile the Syracuse Orange are a team that many didn't think deserved to be in the tournament. But like UVA, they've been consistent when it has mattered most in the big dance and are seizing this opportunity. The Orange feel that their loss to the Cavaliers in January is something they can learn from.
"I thought we played very well offensively against Virginia this year. I thought it was one of our better games. Five or six minutes to go and it was 50-50 and they didn't lose a home game this year so I think if we can play at that level it's a good omen for us to play that way," explained Syracuse head coach Jim Boeheim.
Interesting to note that Syracuse has held its opponents to an average of 53 points in the tournament while Virginia has outscored it's opponents by an average of 19 points. Tip-off is set for 6:09 Eastern time Sunday.