NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Interstat) — A surging Virginia team riding a five-game win streak will face an Ohio State squad looking for a signature non-conference victory when the Cavaliers and Buckeyes meet in a men’s basketball showcase at Bridgestone Arena on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. Virginia (21-3) arrives with one of the nation’s top records, bolstered by its trademark stifling defense. The Cavaliers have held opponents under 70 points in 22 of 24 games this season, including a 61-58 road win at Florida State last Tuesday. Offensively, they have found a spark from guard Jacari White, who erupted for a career-high 19 points in that victory. Over his last four games, White is averaging 11.3 points and has provided crucial backcourt scoring. Ohio State (16-8), navigating a challenging Big Ten schedule, is coming off an 89-82 home win over Southern California. The Buckeyes are led by veteran point guard Bruce Thornton, who is playing at an all-conference level. Thornton is averaging 18.1 points and 5.4 assists over his last seven contests, including a 21-point, 8-assist performance against USC. His matchup with Virginia’s disciplined perimeter defense will be pivotal. The game represents a contrast in styles. Virginia’s deliberate, defensive-minded approach will clash with Ohio State’s more up-tempo offense, which averages over 80 points per game at home this season. The Buckeyes will need to solve the Cavaliers’ pack-line defense and limit turnovers, while Virginia must contend with the athleticism and scoring punch of Thornton and forward Devin Royal, who had 19 points against USC. This neutral-site contest offers Virginia a chance to bolster its NCAA tournament resume with a quality win away from home, while Ohio State seeks a high-profile victory to enhance its own postseason credentials ahead of a tough closing stretch in conference play. Tipoff is set for Saturday afternoon at Bridgestone Arena, home of the NHL’s Nashville Predators.