With tip-off between the North Carolina men’s basketball team and Texas just minutes away, The Daily Tar Heel has compiled a few things to look out for in tonight’s game.
1. NCAA Eligibility Issues
Despite UNC senior Leslie McDonald’s reported return to the court against Texas, North Carolina still finds itself amidst NCAA issues, and P.J. Hairston will remain sidelined. But if any other coach in the country understands coach Roy Williams’ plight, it may be Texas’ coach Rick Barnes. The Longhorns were saddled with their own NCAA issues last season with sophomore point guard Myck Kabongo. Kabongo, who now plays in the NBA, was suspended for the entire season last year for receiving impermissible benefits from an agent. His suspension was reduced to 23 games during the season.
2. Rebounding
In his Monday teleconference, Texas coach Rick Barnes stressed the importance of winning the battle of the boards against the Tar Heels. UNC averages 40.4 rebounds per game, while holding its opponents to 35.2. Brice Johnson and Kennedy Meeks lead the Tar Heels, averaging 6.9 and 6.3, respectively. The Longhorns average 43.8, while their opponents pull down only 34.1. Cameron Ridley leads the team with 7.8. For the Tar Heels to be successful, the big men need to get the glass to spark the fast-paced offense that Roy Williams emphasizes.
3. Demarcus Holland
Barnes praised Holland’s consistency and work ethic in practice, noting that he always knows what he’s going to get with Holland.
“He’s a player that you watch him play in a game, that’s how he practices everyday,” Barnes said.
“There’s not a coach in the country that wouldn’t want to have him on their team.”
Holland averages 11 points and 5.7 rebounds per game, and could be the spark the Longhorns need on the road.
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