Thijs De Ridder Returns to Lead Virginia Basketball
The ACC Preseason Player of the Year aims for redemption as the Cavaliers enter the 2026-27 season ranked No. 9.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Basketball
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Thijs De Ridder is returning to the University of Virginia for the 2026-27 season after being named the ACC Preseason Player of the Year. He chose to remain in Charlottesville to pursue a championship following a disappointing loss in last season's NCAA tournament.
Why it matters
De Ridder’s return is crucial for a Virginia squad aiming to build on a 30-win campaign from last year. He turned down other NIL offers, citing a commitment to the team's family environment and a desire for unfinished business.
De Ridder averaged 15.6 points and 6.2 rebounds per game last season while shooting 50.8% from the floor and 35.7% from 3-point range. He scored 20 or more points in 12 separate games throughout the year.
The players
Thijs De Ridder
He is the star forward for the University of Virginia basketball team and the reigning ACC Preseason Player of the Year.
Nolan Adekunle
He is expected to join the starting lineup for the Cavaliers this season.
The details
Coaching staff focused on improving defensive versatility through film study and practice drills throughout the offseason. De Ridder enters the year on the NABC Player of the Year watch list as the Cavaliers prepare to open their schedule at home against Drexel.
Timeline
Virginia lost in the NCAA tournament last season.
De Ridder was voted ACC Preseason Player of the Year earlier this month.
This article was published on October 29, 2026.
Virginia opens the season at home against Drexel next Tuesday.
The 2026-27 basketball season is currently underway.
The Big Picture
De Ridder's recognition on the watch list for the NABC Player of the Year award marks a major step in his collegiate development. This accolade places him alongside the elite athletes currently competing in the NCAA landscape.
Virginia enters the season ranked No. 9 and picked to finish second in the ACC standings. With De Ridder back in the lineup alongside projected starter Nolan Adekunle, fans can anticipate heavy rotation minutes for both impact players.
The takeaway
De Ridder's decision to forgo other NIL offers highlights a growing trend of top athletes prioritizing team chemistry over individual financial gain. His consistency from the floor last season suggests he will remain a central offensive focal point for the Cavaliers.
What happens next
Virginia plays Drexel at home next Tuesday to open their 2026-27 season.
Further reading
For more on the team, visit the Charlottesville Basketball page.
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