Virginia Eyes Three‑Point Shooting Center Mike Walz in Transfer Portal

*TL;DR: Virginia is pursuing Richmond center Mike Walz, whose 38.5% three‑point rate could stretch the Cavaliers’ offense.

The Cavaliers have added only Jurian Dixon this transfer window, but the roster still lacks a big man who can shoot from distance. With the portal open through the offseason, Virginia’s staff is evaluating three potential centers: Mike Walz, Veljko Ilic and Isaiah Carr.

Walz posted a 38.5% three‑point percentage last season, the highest mark among the three candidates. He averaged 7.9 points, 6.4 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game, while turning the ball over 1.5 times per outing. His ability to space the floor offers a rare skill set for a traditional center and could open driving lanes for guards.

Ilic contributed a career‑high 11.4 points, 6.5 rebounds and 2.2 assists while shooting 59.2% from the field. He operates primarily in the paint, never attempts a three‑pointer, and excels at rebounding. His efficiency suggests he could bolster Virginia’s interior scoring and defensive glass.

Carr recorded a season‑high five blocks in a game against Southern Illinois, finishing the year with 3.7 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game. Though his offensive numbers are modest, his rim‑protecting presence could fill the defensive role vacated by Johann Grünloh.

If Virginia secures Walz, the team would gain a stretch‑four capable of pulling opposing bigs out of the paint. That shift could improve spacing for current scorers and reduce reliance on perimeter shooting. Conversely, adding Ilic would reinforce post scoring and rebounding, while Carr would address interior defense without altering offensive schemes.

The decision hinges on whether the Cavaliers prioritize floor‑spacing or traditional post play for the 2026‑27 season. Monitoring Walz’s portal activity and Virginia’s official roster moves will reveal the direction the program intends to take.