UVA basketball coach Tony Bennett talks with reporters after the second-ranked Cavaliers defeated Pitt, 61-49, in ACC action on Monday.
On the defense: “I thought our defense was really good. Our guys were charged up. We were bothering shots, and we just made them earn everything. We certainly respected their ability and how hot they have been, so our guys responded to the challenge. They knew they would have to scramble, fight, and bring a little more. We got torched a little bit against Wake forest’s ability to shoot that three and I thought we were better on our rotations, and being there on the catch tonight.”
On Marial Shayok and Isaiah Wilkins: “I really challenged the bench and told them now is the time. Just get out there and fight, battle, and be all about that and nothing else. It was time to grow up in a sense. I thought Marial really played and battled. He had a big three, and made some good stops. I thought Isaiah Wilkins gave us a nice lift along with Marial, and I thought they were really energetic.”
On Malcolm Brogdon’s 1,000th point: “I was teasing him saying that in the NFL the quarterbacks buy their linemen Rolexes, so he should go buy his big guys a TAG Heuer. They set so many good screens to get him open. I told him how proud I was of him, because he is just a complete player. He is steady, he is tough, and he is often guarding the best perimeter player. In all ways he is an ambassador for this university and this program.”
On London Perrantes’ passing: “That was a big one he made to Anthony Gill when he got fouled. Pitt jams the lane and are physical, and London was very clever. He took the right shots and had a good feel for the game in terms of what shots to take, when to attack, and when to make the passes. He got us some easy buckets. That is what this is about. We get some easy shots off of his playmaking ability.”
On Evan Nolte: “He defended well. His shot was off today and his balance wasn’t great, but he really defended well. He is such a heady player and he is smart. His size helps as well. My message was to trust your system, trust your team, and trust your shot, and he did that tonight. He shot with confidence even if he wasn’t making them. His smarts and defensive positioning and length were very helpful.”
On the crowd: “I wanted to thank the crowd. I know the weather is a big deal for Charlottesville people. Those who came out were loud and active. They had fight just like I challenged the team to, and I hope everyone is getting home safe. I really appreciate it, because I know it is uncomfortable for the southern drivers to be out in this.”
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