2023 March Madness 1st round bracket breakdown: South Region
No. 4 Virginia vs. No. 13 Furman聽
Virginia has been one of the better defensive teams all season. The Cavaliers were top three in defensive efficiency in the ACC and have strong veteran leadership. The problem with Virginia is it is not a high–scoring team and rely mostly on defense to get it out of dry spells on offense. Defense alone may not be enough for the Cavaliers to go far in the tournament.聽
The Paladins have four players averaging double digits and are led by Mike Blothwell (averaging 18 points, 3.5 rebounds and three assists). Furman is the best team in the nation from inside the three–point line, making 59.1% of its two-point shots. The Paladins don鈥檛 turn the ball over and are efficient on offense, meaning they could beat Virginia at their own game.
