Charlottesville, VA – The Virginia Cavaliers women’s basketball team is preparing for a crucial First Four matchup against Arizona State on March 19th, and key players Kymora Johnson, Paris Clark, and Sa’Myah Smith addressed the media on Tuesday, March 18th, offering insights into their mindset and preparations for the tournament. The team, which secured an overall record of 19-11 and an 11-7 conference record this season, is making its first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2018. This Virginia women’s basketball team is eager to make a deep run, despite a season that presented its share of challenges.
Head coach Amaka Agugua-Hamilton expressed her excitement for the opportunity, stating, “I’m just excited for the experience for this team,” according to SI.com. “I just think we have a lot of players on our team that this will be the first time that they’ve been to the NCAA Tournament and we have players that have been to the NCAA Tournament that will get a chance to play significant minutes. I just want them to seize the day, stay present and compete.” The Cavaliers will face the Sun Devils at 9 p.m. ET, with the winner advancing to the Round of 64 as a No. 10 seed to face No. 7 Georgia in the Sacramento 4 Region.
Clark’s Resilience and Leadership
Paris Clark, a senior guard, has been a vital component of the Cavaliers’ success, despite battling injuries throughout the 2024-25 season. She finished as Virginia’s third-leading scorer with an average of 10.3 points per game and led the team in steals with 1.96 per game. VirginiaSports.com reported that Clark played through pain in her ankle for much of the season, missing six games. Coach Agugua-Hamilton praised Clark’s dedication, saying, “Paris was hurt the whole season and played hurt…she just really wanted to be there. She knew we needed her, and she just really laid it on the line for us.”
Kymora Johnson, a close friend of Clark’s, echoed this sentiment, stating, “At the end of the day, she’s a fighter. Nothing can stop her: injuries, fatigue, whatever it is.” Johnson, an All-ACC selection, likewise contributed significantly to the team’s offense, recording more assists than any other player besides Clark. The pair represented UVA at the ACC Tipoff earlier this month in Charlotte, N.C.
Preparing for Arizona State
The Cavaliers and Sun Devils are closely matched, both ranking mid-tier within their respective conferences. Arizona State boasts a 24-10 overall record and a 9-9 conference record, marking their return to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2019. The game is expected to be a tightly contested affair, with both teams known for close scoring margins. The players emphasized the importance of staying focused and executing their game plan.
Sa’Myah Smith, while not directly quoted in available reports, is expected to play a key role in the frontcourt, providing rebounding and defensive presence. The team’s overall strategy will likely center around utilizing Clark’s athleticism and Johnson’s playmaking abilities while capitalizing on opportunities in transition. The coaching staff has been analyzing Arizona State’s tendencies, focusing on identifying weaknesses and exploiting mismatches.
The Road Ahead and Tournament Expectations
Virginia’s return to the NCAA Tournament marks the program’s 26th appearance. While the First Four game against Arizona State presents an immediate challenge, the Cavaliers are focused on advancing and making a statement in the Sacramento 4 Region. A victory would set up a Round of 64 matchup against No. 7 Georgia, a team known for its competitive spirit. The Lady Bulldogs have faced tough opponents throughout the year and will undoubtedly provide a stern test for the Cavaliers.
The team’s success hinges on maintaining a high level of intensity and execution. Coach Agugua-Hamilton has stressed the importance of staying present and seizing the moment, particularly for players experiencing the NCAA Tournament for the first time. The Cavaliers are determined to represent the University of Virginia with pride and make a memorable run in the tournament. The team’s ability to overcome adversity, as demonstrated by Clark’s resilience, will be crucial to their success.
The Cavaliers will continue their preparations with focused practices and film study, refining their strategies and ensuring they are fully prepared for the challenge ahead. Fans can discover the latest updates and information on the official Virginia Sports website.
The First Four game against Arizona State is scheduled for March 19th at 9 p.m. ET. The winner will advance to the Round of 64, continuing their pursuit of a national championship. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and support for the Virginia Cavaliers as they embark on this exciting journey.
