Virginia Sophomore Blake Buchanan is Finding His Groove

Second-year forward Blake Buchanan seems to be finding his fit within the UVA system. He’s improved his numbers across the board this season, in an increased role.  The big man from Idaho has proven reliable, as one of only three Virginia players to appear in every game this season.

Blake Buchanan with his first career double-double and in emphatic fashion.

11 points, 14 rebounds and 2 blocks.
pic.twitter.com/5FZs11YvCH

— Preston Willett (@PrestonWillett) January 16, 2025

Blake has clearly become more comfortable within the offense as of late.  Over the last few weeks he has been finding easy points with a lot of dunks and layups, as a result of being well-positioned and making the correct reads. His field goal percentage is currently second best on the team, and he has only finished under 50% in one of the last 8 contests.

As it has been with almost all big men at UVA over the last 16 seasons, learning the system and being comfortable on both ends takes time. Blake recently crossed the 1,000 minute mark.  He's playing the best basketball of his young college career now, recording his first two double doubles in recent games.  Improving at the foul line will be important going forward, only a 54% free-throw shooter.  His aggressive style will get him there often.  But Blake is really starting to put it all together, showing why UVA recruited him so heavily.   

The special Locker Room Access eBay auctions are underway.  All in honor of our friend Chris Dembitz, better known as Phony Bennett.  Items include signed game worn shoes, like Blake Buchanan's shoes pictured above. 

All proceeds from player merch go to them through NIL.  There are also game worn shoes from members of the coaching staff, with those proceeds going to the UVA Children's Hospital in Chris's name. 

(Featured Image Credit: Josie Drumheller/UVA Athletics)