The Tar Heels wrapped up their nonconference games with a dominating 99-51 victory over East Carolina. With a 12-1 record, this team is in impressive company. The last time UNC had a better start was in 2008 and 2009, when both teams went 13-0. This marks only the fifth time in this century that UNC has started 12-1.
In the game, four players scored in double figures, led by Caleb Wilson with 21 points. Henri Veesaar followed closely with 16 points, Luka Bogavac added 15, and Seth Trimble contributed 12. Bogavac’s comeback was especially notable; he had struggled in previous games but found his rhythm again, making five of nine shots and grabbing four rebounds.
Wilson is making headlines with his dunks. He started the game as the nation’s leader in dunks, and after five more in this game, his total rose to 41, proving his explosive style is a game-changer. He’s also consistently scored over 20 points, matching a record held by the legendary Phil Ford.
Veesaar, who previously shot around 30% from three-point range at Arizona, has dramatically improved. After going 4-for-5 in this game, he’s now shooting 50% from beyond the arc this season. His evolving skill set is becoming crucial for UNC’s offense, especially for spacing the floor.
Both Wilson and Veesaar registered double-doubles, marking the sixth time this season they achieved this milestone together. Only three other pairs in Tar Heel history have more combined double-doubles.
In this game, the Tar Heels also experimented with zone defense, a first for the season. While it was effective, they faced some challenges, particularly with East Carolina’s Giovanni Emejuru finding success in the paint. This highlights a potential vulnerability for UNC that other teams might exploit in the future.
Defensively, the Tar Heels were impressive. No opponent has scored over 75 points against them this season, and East Carolina managed only 26% shooting from the field. They capitalized on ECU’s turnovers, scoring 14 points off seven turnovers. Assistant coach Jeff Lebo noted, “That’s Carolina Basketball,” referring to their efficient transition play, where they dominated fast-break points 16-0.
Playing at home, the Tar Heels are now 9-0 at the Smith Center, winning these games by an average margin of 22.7 points. This season’s performance, including victories over teams like Kansas and Kentucky, positions them well for the upcoming Atlantic Coast Conference games and keeps them in the national conversation. The ACC looks stronger this year, offering great opportunities for building on their success.
Isaiah Denis has also stepped up when called upon, contributing six points late in the game. Coaches want him to maintain that level of defense, as it could pave the way for his future contributions.
With a solid 12-1 record in nonconference play, the Tar Heels are gearing up for a strong conference challenge, a far cry from last year. As they prepare for ACC matchups, their current momentum could be pivotal in establishing themselves as national contenders.
