This rivalry of North Carolina/Kansas has been nothing short of epic dating back to their National Championship contest just three years ago, which featured a second half comeback for the Jayhawks, further cementing Bill Self's legacy.
Friday night at The Phogg where Bill Self at home was 292-16, added another win to his resume, but it would not come under any pressure as the North Carolina Tar Heels overcame a double digit half time lead to overcome the Jayhawks momentarily, ultimately losing in dramatic fashion, 92-89.
3 Key Takeaways from UNC vs. Kansas
Hunter Dickenson previously matchup against the Tarheels ended in 2022 where he fouled out with 9 points, and 8 rebounds. In new uniform Dickenson scored 20 points with 10 boards ultimately reminding everyone his impact on the interior against a lengthy, agile Tar Heels front court that competed on both ends.
(photo courtesy of Associated Press)
North Carolina staying in attack mode will be their identity. The 3 guard lineup with RJ Davis, Seth Trimble, and Elliot Cadeau will cause havoc for opposing defenses. North Carolina attacking the paint area, finishing 28-31 from the charity stripe is a recipe for future success. Despite cold shooting from ACC POY RJ Davis finishing 3-15 from the field, 1 of 7 from deep the Heels were still in late contention to leave Kansas in victory.
The battle on the interior will be of great emphasis all season. Losing Armando Bacot was no surprise after his credentialed career as a Heel, but nevertheless it did create a great void. Washingto and Withers combined for 18 points, 18 rebounds amongst each other. Shooting 3 of 6 from the perimeter was certainly a surprise, but Jae'lyn Withers stated he has worked on his outside shooting during the offseason. If he can continue this concistency, it adds value offensively under a Hubert Davis system, which allows for offensive rebounding and perimter shooting. As we know, the best perimter shot is off a offensive rebound.
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