Tony Bennett and the Virginia basketball staff received some big news to begin 2015, as 2016 Virginia Episcopal (VA) power forward Sacha Killeya-Jones announced his intention to become a Cavalier.

"Coach Bennett really made me a priority and was in contact with me the most out of any head coach," Killeya-Jones told HoopSeen.com. "I wanted to go where I was wanted and at Virginia I could feel that. Plus, I always felt that Virginia was a great fit for me on and off the court."

"The fact that Virginia is a top 5 team and defending ACC champs made it that much easier of a decision."

The 6-foot-9 big man's decision came at a time many didn't see coming. However, while at home from school over the holiday break, Killeya-Jones and his family agreed Virginia was the right place for him.

"I've been talking to my parents about recruiting and the next step. Virginia has always been one of the first schools to come up. We agreed that was the best fit for me. It was clear Virginia was the school where I wanted to be."

Virginia's early pickup comes at a great time. Heading into AAU season, Killeya-Jones would have been very popular for other high-major programs. He chose the Cavaliers over offers from Georgetown, Wake Forest, VCU, and Virginia Tech.

Killeya-Jones is the third player to join Virginia's 2016 class, as he joins guards Kyle Guy and Ty Jerome.