Virginia Edges American University in Tight Nonconference Finale

Elijah Saunders led the Cavaliers with 21 points and clutch free throws to secure a 63-58 victory in Charlottesville.

Virginia improved to 7-5 with a narrow win over American University, closing out their nonconference schedule under first-year head coach Ron Sanchez.
Elijah Saunders scored 21 points, grabbed eight rebounds, and made five crucial free throws in the final moments to seal the victory for the Cavaliers.
American University, now 6-6, briefly took a five-point second-half lead but was unable to hold off Virginia's late defensive surge and scoring runs.
Taine Murray contributed 13 points, including a key three-pointer in the final minutes, while Isaac McKneely added 11 points for Virginia.
Matt Mayock led American with 16 points, including four three-pointers, while teammates Matt Rogers and Colin Smalls each added 12 points in the loss.