01-05-2025
7-Foot Big Man Makes Final College Basketball Decision After Entering Transfer Portal
It was a challenging 2024-25 season for the Virginia Cavaliers basketball program. Just 18 days before the start of the season, longtime head coach Tony Bennett announced his retirement at the age of 55, closing the book on a highly successful tenure.
In the wake of Bennett's departure, the Cavaliers turned to former assistant Ron Sanchez to lead the program.
Advertisement
However, the team struggled under Sanchez's leadership, finishing with a 15-17 overall record and going just 8-12 in ACC play. After one season, the Cavaliers decided to make another coaching change.
Virginia hired Ryan Odom as its new head coach. Odom brings a wealth of experience, having led programs at Charlotte, UMBC, Utah State, and most recently VCU.
This offseason has been a busy one for the Cavaliers as they look to stabilize the roster and prepare for the 2025–26 campaign. The program has worked to retain players while also seeking new talent through the transfer portal.
One of the most notable additions is Ugonna Onyenso, a 7-foot center and former top-35 recruit. Onyenso began his college career at Kentucky, where he appeared in 40 games and made 14 starts between 2022 and 2024.
Advertisement
He then transferred to Kansas State, where he averaged 2.8 points per game in limited action, playing 11.1 minutes per contest across 24 appearances and two starts.
Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports reported the great news for the Virginia Cavaliers.
Virginia has experienced significant roster turnover, losing 11 players to the NCAA transfer portal. However, the staff has been aggressive in rebuilding. Onyenso marks the sixth transfer addition for the Cavaliers this offseason, joining Devin Tillis, Dallin Hall, Martin Carrere, Sam Lewis and Jacari White.
Kentucky Wildcats forward Ugonna Onyenso (33). Jordan Prather-Imagn Images
According to 247 Sports, Virginia's transfer class currently ranks 48th nationally, reflecting the program's determined efforts to retool under its new leadership.
Advertisement
Odom owns a career record of 222-127 and has made four NCAA Tournament appearances. His most recent success came at VCU, where he guided the Rams to a 27-7 record last season.
Related: UNC Commit Sends Clear Message After Joining Hubert Davis
Related: Kentucky's Mark Pope Makes Move on Five-Star Recruit
