Tar Heels' Rally Falls Short in Syracuse: North Carolina's Fierce Comeback Thwarted at JMA Wireless Dome

In a closely contested battle, the North Carolina Tar Heels faced a challenging road game against the Syracuse Orange. The Tar Heels, ranked 7th nationally, entered the game with an impressive scoring run but ultimately fell short with a final score of 79-86. Despite their efforts, this result moves their record to an undisclosed number of victories and defeats.

The game was held at the JMA Wireless Dome in Syracuse, where 21,275 fans witnessed a contest filled with intensity and competitive spirit. The Tar Heels started strong in the first half by putting up 42 points but were matched by an equally determined Syracuse team that also scored 42 points before halftime.

The North Carolina Tar Heels showcased their offensive capabilities throughout the match. They shot an efficient 48 percent from the field and an impressive 44 percent from beyond the arc. Their free throw accuracy was notable as well, sinking shots at an 82 percent clip. The team's fast-paced offense resulted in them scoring 18 fast break points.

On defense, however, they struggled to contain Syracuse's sharpshooters who managed to convert on a remarkable 62 percent of their field goal attempts and maintained a solid three-point percentage of 47. This high conversion rate contributed significantly to Syracuse's total score.

The Tar Heels demonstrated strong teamwork with a total of 19 assists and managed to keep turnovers relatively low at eleven for the entire game which reflected positively on their assist-to-turnover ratio of about two (1.73). They fought hard under both baskets securing ten offensive rebounds contributing to eighteen second-chance points.

Despite these efforts by North Carolina, it was not enough as they were outscored by two points in what turned out to be a decisive second half for Syracuse who tallied up forty-four points compared to thirty-seven from UNC.

Looking ahead for the North Carolina Tar Heels is another home encounter set against Virginia Tech Hokies scheduled for February seventeenth at two PM Eastern Time at Dean Smith Center located in Chapel Hill NC zip code:27514 Fans can catch this matchup live on ACC Network channel six hundred twelve ensuring they don't miss any action from one of college basketball’s storied venues.