The Virginia Cavaliers boast two standout centers in Johann Grünloh and Ugonna Onyenso, and they continued to showcase their potential in UVA’s recent victory over NC Central on Friday night.
The Wahoos improved to 2-0 with an 81-62 win, powered by 20 points from Thijs de Ridder, 12 points from Malik Thomas, and double-doubles from both Sam Lewis and Ugonna Onyenso, each adding 10 points. Onyenso also contributed seven rebounds—four offensive—and two blocks, marking a strong all-around performance.
Johann Grünloh was equally impressive, registering four points, 11 rebounds (including three offensive), and an outstanding seven blocks. The duo of seven-footers dominated the glass and protected the rim, consistently rejecting the Eagles’ attempts in the paint while generating second-chance opportunities through offensive rebounds.
Grünloh’s shot-blocking and rebounding were particularly magnificent, capitalizing on NC Central’s lack of size. He supplemented his defensive presence with two steals, showcasing his long reach and timing. Although his scoring output was lower than in the season opener, the German big man’s overall impact was undeniable.
Coming off a four-block performance in his Virginia debut, Onyenso was slightly less dominant on defense in Game 2, tallying three fouls. However, he compensated with offensive prowess, scoring eight points in the first half alone. The paint presence that Grünloh and Onyenso provide is invaluable for the Wahoos, erasing defensive mistakes and generating additional possessions on offense.
Devin Tillis’ knee injury has led to Grünloh and Onyenso sharing the floor more frequently—a combination not seen in Monday’s season opener. After coach Tony Odom hinted at utilizing their postgame abilities together, they shared seven minutes on the court Friday night. In these lineups, the ‘Hoos deployed Grünloh at the four, leveraging his mobility on defense and shooting range to stretch the floor.
This tandem’s impact meant that Martin Carrere only saw action in the final three minutes of the game when the outcome was already decided. Grünloh and Onyenso perfectly complement the ultra-productive Thijs de Ridder in the frontcourt, and their chemistry appears to improve with each game.
As the season progresses, these two big men look poised to be a fundamental part of Virginia’s success on both ends of the floor.
https://www.streakingthelawn.com/virginia-cavaliers-basketball/45550/wahoo-centers-grunloh-and-onyenso-dominate-vs-nc-central
