The Confidential

UNC-Duke- The Day After

While the Tar Heels didn’t pull out a victory, they showed a lot of promise and energy, which is a good sign for the rest of the season. They met and exceeded all three of my expectations by playing hard and keeping the game close. Duke wasn’t able to jump out to a big lead at the start of the game because of an improved level of defense, and Carolina actually led the entire first half before going cold offensively. The substitution of PJ Hairston for Desmond Hubert in the starting lineup, proved to be a big boost for the team, and will hopefully be a permanent change. Only time will tell.

While the Tar Heels have the most difficult schedule of any team in the conference (facing all top four teams- Miami, Duke, NCSU and UVA twice), they have the potential to make a good run to close out the season and make a good case for the NCAA Tournament. Their three highest ranked opponents (Duke, UVA and NCSU) are all at home in the Smith Center, as well as their second meeting with FSU who has given them problems in the past. Games with Clemson and GT shouldn’t be overlooked, but despite the current standings, the Tar Heels away game at ACC-turncoat Maryland on March 6 should prove to be one of the toughest matches left.

If the Tar Heels can play with the energy and intensity that they brought to Cameron Indoor last night, they have the ability to have a special ending to an otherwise forgettable season.