UNC Caps Exhibition Games with Strong 3-Point Performance

Bassyonni

ago 6 hours

North Carolina’s exhibition season concluded with an impressive display of 3-point shooting, marking a significant turnaround from previous games. The Tar Heels defeated Winston-Salem State 95-53 at the Smith Center, showcasing their ability from beyond the arc.

Strong 3-Point Performance

In the second half of the game, UNC made nine 3-pointers, contributing to a dominant performance. Jarin Stevenson, a forward for the Tar Heels, emphasized the importance of fast breaks and team support in achieving this level of success beyond the arc. “Forcing turnovers and pushing the ball up the court really helped us find our rhythm,” Stevenson stated.

Previous Struggles from Long Range

Prior to this game, North Carolina struggled significantly against BYU, managing only 4-for-19 from 3-point range in a narrow 78-76 defeat. The team’s shooting woes included several players who went scoreless beyond the arc, a stark contrast to their performance against Winston-Salem State.

Halftime Adjustments

After a lackluster first half where UNC shot 3-for-12 from 3-point range, the team stepped up its game in the second half, shooting 9-for-20. This improvement allowed the Tar Heels to outscore the Rams 56-27 after halftime. Coach Hubert Davis noted that the team’s 3-point shooting improved due to better ball movement and shot selection.

Player Highlights

Jarin Stevenson: 2-for-3 from three
Kyan Evans: 2-for-4 from three
Jonathan Powell: 2-for-6 from three
Young: 3-for-6 from three
Henri Veesaar: 1-for-1 from three
Zayden High: 1-for-2 from three
Derek Dixon: 1-for-4 from three

Seven different players contributed to the scoring from beyond the arc. Notably, Young made three consecutive 3-pointers within 99 seconds, showcasing UNC’s depth. His success reflected a team effort, with Powell, Wilson, and Dixon providing critical assists during that sequence.

Looking Ahead

The Tar Heels’ next challenge comes as they prepare for the regular season opener on November 3, 2025, against Central Arkansas. The roster features notable newcomers, promising an enhanced shooting capability. Meanwhile, the team awaits Luka Bogavac’s eligibility, who is anticipated to be a key shooter this season.

With the exhibition games behind them, North Carolina is positioned to start the season on a high note, demonstrating a potent blend of talent and teamwork that could yield exciting results.