Tar Heels Unable to Contain DJ Burns and DJ Horne, Succumb in ACC Championship Clash
Even before the opening tip-off, the spotlight was on the supporting cast of UNC, with calls for players beyond RJ Davis and Armando Bacot to elevate their scoring contributions. The previous night’s narrow victory over Pitt had underscored the necessity for a more balanced offensive effort from the Tar Heels.
Hopes were high for a commanding performance from UNC, but the reality proved starkly different. The Wolfpack asserted their dominance early on, led by Arizona State transfer DJ Horne, a Raleigh native, who delivered a scintillating display of scoring prowess, amassing an impressive 29 points. Additionally, NC State’s imposing big man, DJ Burns, asserted his presence in the paint, outmuscling Bacot to tally 20 points and secure crucial rebounds.
Despite the valiant efforts of Davis and Bacot, who once again showcased their star quality, the Tar Heels found themselves outmatched by a relentless NC State squad. Davis poured in an impressive 30 points, displaying his scoring prowess with a blend of precision shooting and tenacious drives to the basket.
Meanwhile, Bacot continued his stellar form, notching yet another double-double with 18 points and 11 rebounds, further solidifying his place among UNC’s basketball elite.
However, the supporting cast failed to deliver as expected, with players like Harrison Ingram, Cormac Ryan, and Elliot Cadeau struggling to find their rhythm on the offensive end. Their collective 7-of-26 shooting performance highlighted the team’s struggles to generate consistent scoring opportunities against a determined NC State defense.
Throughout the game, UNC seemed unable to establish a cohesive rhythm, with NC State dictating the tempo and asserting their dominance in every facet of the game. The Wolfpack’s hunger for victory was palpable, fueled by their determination to secure a coveted spot in the NCAA Tournament.
As the final buzzer sounded, signaling NC State’s triumph and their first ACC Tournament title since 1987, the Tar Heels were left to ponder their missed opportunities and shortcomings. While Davis’s heroics kept them within striking distance, it was evident that UNC’s aspirations for championship glory had been thwarted by a resolute NC State squad.
Looking ahead, both UNC and NC State await their fate in the upcoming NCAA Tournament selection show. For the Tar Heels, the bitter taste of defeat serves as motivation to regroup and refocus as they prepare to embark on their quest for redemption on college basketball’s grandest stage.
As for NC State, their triumphant victory serves as validation of their resilience and determination, propelling them into the national spotlight as they seek to make a statement in the NCAA Tournament.