TALLAHASSEE—After a strong game where Carolina defeated Florida State 96-85, RJ Davis wrapped up his interview with a grin. When his stats were read out—20 points on nine shots, five assists, and no turnovers—he happily added, “And a block! Don’t forget that block!”
That block was more than just a footnote. It showcased Davis’s competitiveness, especially against a tough Florida State team. Since their last game—one they’d rather forget against Clemson—Carolina’s performance has improved.
The Tar Heels shot impressively, hitting 55.2% from the field and 38.5% from beyond the arc. Although their free-throw percentage dipped to 71%, they took 31 shots, providing plenty of opportunities. However, the true difference came from their teamwork and grit on the court.
Key moments included Drake Powell hustling for an offensive rebound and ensuring they retained possession by knocking the ball off a Seminole. Ven-Allen Lubin followed suit, highlighting their determination. Powell, shifting to the three position, has developed into a well-rounded player. His ability to find open teammates with precise passes, such as one that resulted in free throws for Jalen Washington, has been crucial. In just 23 minutes, Powell’s performance reflected an impressive +56 rating over the last four games. This isn’t just about scoring; it’s about making impactful plays.
Part of Carolina’s success can be attributed to the level of competition. They’ve faced stronger teams in NC State, Virginia, and Florida State, stepping up their game instead of just getting by. They’ve now not only won four straight but also done so decisively, with each victory showing marked improvement.
So, what’s changed for this team?
“We’ve all bought into the little things,” RJ Davis shared. “We’re bringing energy and supporting each other. Our mentality has shifted, and we see what we can be.” That’s evident as both Davis and coach Hubert Davis highlighted the contributions of Cade Tyson, even though his stats weren’t eye-popping. Tyson scored six points and grabbed four boards. He played solid defense, contributing significantly beyond the numbers. Hubert Davis emphasized the importance of being ready when called upon, praising Tyson’s recent contributions.
Seeing a player with modest numbers being called the MVP reflects a team-first mindset. It’s thrilling to watch individual performances, like RJ Davis sinking big shots, but what’s truly enjoyable is the way the team is coming together. For the first time since the Kansas game, six Tar Heels scored in double figures.
Just a month ago, it seemed like Carolina needed everything to go perfectly to win. Now, they’ve proven they can adapt and thrive under pressure. Whether it’s managing foul troubles or switching up defenses, they demonstrated resilience and a strong rebounding game, dominating the boards 35-21 and racking up 24 second-chance points.
While there’s still room for growth, Carolina stands at 17-11, confident in their potential. RJ Davis stated, “We’re a really good basketball team.” Even with their size challenges, they’ve shown plenty of heart and resilience.
And let’s not forget that block.
Check out this related article: Celebrating Excellence: University of Colorado Athletics Honors Team Achievements Before Senior Day
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