How ODU Basketball Is Building a Championship Contender This Season

Watching Old Dominion University basketball this season has been nothing short of exhilarating. As someone who has followed college hoops for over a decade, I’ve seen plenty of programs try to build something special, but what’s happening in Norfolk right now feels different. There’s a blend of young talent, strategic coaching, and sheer grit that makes me believe this team isn’t just aiming for a winning record—they’re building a legitimate championship contender. And if you want proof, look no further than the kind of performance we saw from players like Christian Ricio in that double-overtime thriller against Fairfield. Moments like those aren’t just highlights; they’re statements.

I still remember watching that game, thinking how it encapsulated everything this ODU squad is becoming. Christian Ricio, just a sophomore, carried the fight for the Stags in regulation, finishing with 25 points while grabbing three steals before fouling out in the first overtime. Now, I know he was on the opposing team, but performances like that show the level of competition ODU is facing—and rising above. It tells you something about the environment Head Coach Jeff Jones is cultivating. We’re not just talking about raw skill here; it’s about resilience. When you see a young player like Ricio step up under pressure, it’s a reminder of how critical player development is. And honestly, ODU has its own version of that emerging star power.

Let’s talk about the roster for a second. The Monarchs have been quietly stacking talent, and it’s paying off. Take Austin Trice, for example. The guy is a rebounding machine—averaging something like 9.2 boards per game last I checked—and he brings a physicality that sets the tone defensively. Then there’s Mekhi Long, who’s versatility allows the team to switch seamlessly on defense and create mismatches on offense. But what really stands out to me is the backcourt. A.J. Oliver II and Jaylin Hunter have this chemistry that’s rare. Hunter’s assist-to-turnover ratio, which I believe was around 2.5, is a huge reason why the offense flows so smoothly. These guys aren’t just playing; they’re executing a system built for March.

Of course, none of this happens without the coaching staff. Jeff Jones has been around the block, and his experience is evident in how this team handles adversity. I’ve always admired his emphasis on defense-first basketball. Last season, ODU held opponents to under 65 points per game in something like 12 contests. That’s not a fluke—it’s identity. And when you combine that defensive discipline with an offense that’s becoming more dynamic, you’ve got a formula that can go deep in the Conference USA tournament and beyond. Personally, I think their adjusted tempo, which stats show increased by about 4% this season, is a game-changer. It keeps opponents off-balance and creates more transition opportunities, something they’ve capitalized on brilliantly.

But let’s not ignore the intangibles. Team chemistry can make or break a season, and from what I’ve observed, this group has it in spades. Whether it’s the way they communicate on switches or how they celebrate each other’s successes, there’s a genuine connection. I remember one game where they rallied from a 14-point deficit in the second half. That doesn’t happen without trust. And while stats like field goal percentage (which improved to roughly 46% this year) matter, it’s the heart behind those numbers that truly defines a contender.

Looking ahead, the schedule only gets tougher, but I’m optimistic. Matchups against teams like Western Kentucky and UAB will be the real test, and I have a feeling ODU will rise to the occasion. If they can stay healthy—and let’s be honest, that’s always a big “if” in college basketball—I see them winning at least 22 games this season. Maybe more. The way they’ve blended veteran leadership with youthful energy reminds me of some of the best mid-major teams I’ve followed over the years. It’s not just about having talent; it’s about knowing how to use it.

In the end, what excites me most is the potential for growth. Players like Ricio, even as opponents, show what’s possible when young athletes are given the chance to shine. ODU is creating that same opportunity for its own roster, and the results are speaking for themselves. This isn’t a fluke season; it’s a building block. And if they continue on this trajectory, I wouldn’t be surprised to see them dancing in March. As a fan, that’s all you can ask for—a team that believes in itself and plays like every game matters. ODU basketball is doing exactly that, and honestly, it’s a joy to watch.