Despite an astounding effort, North Carolina ultimately couldn’t keep up with Duke’s offensive prowess, led by star Cooper Flagg, and faltered in the final minutes, losing 82-69 against their archnemesis just 13 miles up the road. However, far from being disheartened, freshman Ian Jackson dropped a bold message ahead of March Madness.
Playing at home in front of a jam-packed Dean E. Smith Center, the Tar Heels managed to stay in the game, going blow for blow with the No. 2 college basketball program in the country throughout the night. Still, it wasn’t enough, as Duke eventually overwhelmed UNC and pulled away late to secure the win
North Carolina played the right way all night long, capitalizing on Duke’s mishaps at every opportunity they got. Regardless, once Flagg’s side found its rhythm, it was only a matter of time before the scoreboard flipped.
The final score got out of hand for the Tar Heels, and such a loss in the biggest game of their regular season could be a major burden and setback for the locker room. However, Jackson’s confidence hasn’t wavered, as he delivered a strong message ahead of the NCAA postseason and March Madness.
“We’re overdue for a big win, a big run,” guard Ian Jackson firmly stated postgame, via The Daily Tar Heel. “I think we’re gonna be alright.”
Jackson played 19 minutes in the loss to Duke, recording 8 points, an assist, and a steal. Fellow freshman in Duke, Flagg, posted 15 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists during his 29-minutes performance.
Found a way to win
Despite losing the turnover battle, Duke managed to hold off many of the off turnovers chances for the Tar Heels, while North Carolina didn’t have much success when trying to contain the visitors in transition.
The Blue Devils dominated the paint, proving crucial for their rivalry victory in Chapel Hill. Duke finished the night with a 12-point edge in points in the paint, and as they defeated UNC by 13, that area of the court proved decisive.
Time for the real fun to begin
Duke capped off an almost perfect year in the ACC, finishing the regular season with a 19-1 league record (28-3 overall). However, the real challenge begins next, during the postseason tourney.