Virginia Seeks Next Men’s Basketball Coach Post-Sanchez Era

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — The University of Virginia is set to embark on a new chapter in its men’s basketball program following the conclusion of the 2024-25 season and the departure of interim head coach Ron Sanchez. For the first time in 16 years, the university will conduct an open search for a head coach, with VCU‘s Ryan Odom emerging as a prominent candidate since the resignation of Tony Bennett last October.

Odom, who has directed VCU to a 49-20 record over two seasons, has gained recognition for his effective strategies, leading the Rams to the top of the Atlantic 10 regular-season standings. His current team stands poised for a potential NCAA Tournament bid, whether through an at-large selection or an automatic entry.

Before joining VCU, Odom made headlines during his tenure at UMBC, where he guided the Retrievers to a historic upset over UVA in the first round of the 2018 NCAA Tournament. He accumulated 97 wins during five years there. His coaching pedigree also includes a successful stint at Utah State, where he finished his last season with a 26-9 record and a place in the NCAA Tournament.

Known for a strong defensive approach, Odom’s style is characterized by creating individual matchup advantages and a reliance on three-point shooting. His ability to adjust strategies, seen during his time at Utah State, where he implemented a fast-paced offense, positions him as a flexible candidate.

“Despite the transition in leadership, we see great potential in our next head coach,” said a UVA athletics spokesperson. “We are focused on finding a leader who understands the culture of our program.” Odom’s connections to Virginia run deep; he served as a ball boy in the early 1980s while his father, Dave Odom, was an assistant coach under Terry Holland.

As the coaching carousel heats up, Odom’s name remains prevalent among UVA fans and insiders, largely due to his East Coast roots and familiarity with the Mid-Atlantic recruiting landscape. However, sources suggest that other institutions, like NC State, may have their eyes on Odom as well, making the search competitive.

Historically, Virginia has been viewed as a competitive, yet not elite, destination in the college basketball landscape. The monumental success under Bennett was remarkable and requires a unique candidate to replicate. Odom may well qualify, but his past performances raise questions about whether he can elevate a program rather than merely maintain its status.

In a sport where instant success is often expected, Virginia aims to make a move that invigorates its men’s basketball program while ensuring it remains competitive in the ACC. As the search unfolds, Odom remains a key figure, with every indication suggesting strong mutual interest between him and the university.