Tony Bennett’s Virginia squad passed a huge test Tuesday night, downing No. 22 ranked NC State handily, 63-50. Jayden Gardner was especially effective, dropping 18 points. The Cavaliers also held NC State big man DJ Burns to just 8 points, limiting what he’s able to do best in the paint.

He detailed why versatility in the frontcourt was so key against NC State’s Burns Tuesday night, as well as it’s importance moving forward.

“I think that’s important. Just different opponents sometimes have different ways they go, and again with the size of Burns, we felt like we needed a little more length,” Bennett said. “And, again, the guys that we’ve been playing before, but playing really well, but I think that versatility is very important. And so I was happy to see that. Different guys at different times that’s why you always stay ready.”

Virginia is playing like the No. 1 team in the conference despite sitting in a 3-way tie for first in the current ACC standings. The Cavaliers have won 8 of their last 9 and look to be in a good spot for the ACC Tournament in early March.

Next up for Virginia is Duke on Saturday, Feb. 11.