Opinion
3 min read

Tar Heels Set to Dominate Wolfpack in Upcoming Showdown at Dean Smith Center

As the North Carolina Tar Heels prepare to host their rivals, the North Carolina State Wolfpack, at the Dean Smith Center, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be a thrilling encounter. The Tar Heels have been on a formidable run lately, and their recent performances suggest they're poised to continue their dominance.


Feb 19, 2023; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward Armando Bacot (5) shoots a free throw during the second half of the game against North Carolina State Wolfpack at PNC Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jaylynn Nash-USA TODAY Sports

In their last game on February 17 against Virginia Tech Hokies, UNC showcased an offensive masterclass by putting up an impressive 96 points. Their shooting was nothing short of spectacular; they hit 52 percent from the field and were particularly lethal from inside the paint where they scored 54 points. This level of efficiency is a testament to UNC's ability to create high-percentage shots and dominate inside.


Moreover, UNC's rebounding was dominant as they outrebounded the Hokies by a significant margin with 43 total rebounds – including an imposing 13 offensive boards that led to 17 second-chance points. This kind of hustle play has been characteristic of UNC this season and will likely be a key factor against NCST.


Feb 19, 2023; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA;  North Carolina Tar Heels forward Armando Bacot (5) gestures after scoring a basket during the first half of the game against North Carolina State Wolfpack at PNC Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jaylynn Nash-USA TODAY Sports

The Tar Heels' defense also stepped up in that game with five blocks and four steals which contributed to their fast break points tally. While turnovers were slightly higher than one would like at nine for that game, it didn't seem to affect their overall performance or outcome.


However, it wasn't all smooth sailing for UNC in recent outings. In Syracuse on February 14 against Orange, despite scoring efficiently at 48 percent from the field and sinking an impressive 44 percent from beyond the arc, turnovers proved costly as they fell short by seven points in an intense battle marked by lead changes.


Feb 19, 2023; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA;  North Carolina Tar Heels guard Caleb Love (2) dribbles during the second half of the game against North Carolina State Wolfpack at PNC Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jaylynn Nash-USA TODAY Sports

Looking ahead at NCST's visit on March 2nd – there is no room for complacency. The Wolfpack will come into this game looking for an upset and will undoubtedly challenge every shot and fight for every rebound. But if UNC can maintain its scoring efficiency while tightening up ball security based on past performances – especially considering how well they've played at home – then fans should expect another strong showing from their team.


The scheduled tip-off is set for March 2nd at precisely 4:00 PM Eastern Time in Chapel Hill's own Dean Smith Center. Fans eager not just for victory but also witnessing another chapter in this storied rivalry can catch all the action live on ESPN channel number two hundred six.

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