Louisville vs Virginia Picks and Prediction – 1/4/2025

The Louisville Cardinals (9-5, 2-1 ACC) are set to face the Virginia Cavaliers (8-5, 1-1 ACC) on January 4, 2025, at John Paul Jones Arena in Charlottesville, Virginia. The game is scheduled to tip off at 4:00 PM EST and will be broadcast on the ACC Network. Get in on all the basketball action with our free NCAAB picks.

Louisville enters this matchup following an 83-70 victory over North Carolina, marking their third consecutive win. The Cardinals' offense has been spearheaded by guard Chucky Hepburn, who is averaging 15.9 points per game, along with 3.4 rebounds and 5.4 assists. Forward J'Vonne Hadley contributes significantly on the boards, averaging 7.9 rebounds per game. As a team, Louisville averages 78.4 points per game while allowing 71.6 points, indicating a need for defensive improvements. Louisville has looked like a more competitive team this season, after a severe fall-off over the last few years.

Virginia, on the other hand, is coming off a narrow 70-67 win against NC State, showcasing their elite defense. The Cavaliers are led by guard Isaac McKneely, who averages 12.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game. Their defense has been a cornerstone, allowing just 60.8 points per game, reflecting their commitment to the "Virginia Way," which emphasizes defense, quality shot selection, and ball security. 

Historically, Virginia has dominated this series, holding a 24-5 all-time record against Louisville, including a nine-game home winning streak. The Cavaliers have won 18 of the last 19 meetings, and we think this trend continues. With Virginia's suffocating defense at home, they are the pick. Prediction: Virginia Cavaliers win 69-64.