North Carolina Central vs. Virginia Picks and Prediction for Friday, November 7, 2025
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Virginia looks to keep the momentum rolling when it hosts North Carolina Central at John Paul Jones Arena in Charlottesville. Tip-off is at 7:00 p.m. ET on ACC Extra. The Cavaliers enter at 1-0 after a dominant 87-53 win over Rider, while the Eagles are 0-1 following a 114-66 loss to NC State. Virginia is heavily favored to handle business at home, according to ESPN Analytics, giving them a 98.1% chance to win. Big board, bigger value — see our winning college basketball predictions.
North Carolina Central Preview
North Carolina Central struggled in its opener, allowing 114 points on 59% shooting by NC State. Guard Gage Lattimore led the way offensively with 20 points, hitting 100% from the free throw line, but the Eagles’ limited rebounding and perimeter defense left them outmatched. The team averaged only 24 rebounds in that loss and recorded just nine assists, showing issues moving the ball against high-pressure defenses. Improvement on the glass and in transition defense will be key if they hope to stay competitive.
Virginia Preview
Virginia, meanwhile, opened its season looking sharp on both ends. Thijs De Ridder led the Cavaliers with 21 points on 71.4% shooting, setting the tone for a balanced offense that produced 14 assists and hit nearly 47% from the field. The Cavaliers also dominated the boards, pulling down 49 rebounds to Rider’s 28, which allowed them to dictate tempo and control possessions. The overall depth and size advantage make them a difficult matchup for smaller teams like NC Central. Virginia also showed activity in passing lanes, collecting eight steals and nine blocks to fuel a 34-point win.
North Carolina Central vs Virginia Prediction
Given the contrast in talent and play at both ends, Virginia’s methodical half-court offense should keep NC Central off balance. The Eagles’ interior defense will have trouble containing Virginia’s rebounding advantage, and the Cavaliers’ disciplined defense will limit easy looks. Expect NC Central to compete early, but the gap in talent will widen as the game progresses. The Cavaliers’ defensive pace tends to suppress totals, and their rebounding advantage should slow the game’s rhythm.
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Prediction: Virginia 83, North Carolina Central 59
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Best Picks:
- Virginia -27.5
- Under 141.5 total points.
