North Carolina shook off a slow start to secure an 89-74 victory over Radford on Tuesday night, improving their record to 3-0 at the Dean Dome. Following a significant win against Kansas on November 11, the Tar Heels were expected to face some lingering effects, which became evident early in the game.
Despite the sluggish beginning, North Carolina managed to recover and dominate the game. Luka Bogavac topped the scoring chart for the Tar Heels with 19 points, adding five assists and two steals while shooting 7-for-18 from the field and 3-for-11 from beyond the arc. Center Henri Veesaar contributed 18 points, seven rebounds, and a block. Caleb Wilson, despite a challenging shooting night at 4-for-13, achieved his first career double-double with 13 points and 14 rebounds, along with two assists, a block, and a steal. Jarin Stevenson rounded out the scoring with 15 points, converting 10 of 12 free throws and grabbing seven rebounds.
First Half Overview
North Carolina entered halftime with a 44-31 lead, concluding the first half with a strong 22-9 run. Wilson initiated the scoring for the Tar Heels with a teardrop shot, successfully completing an and-one opportunity. After Radford briefly led 4-2, the Tar Heels responded with a 12-2 run, featuring a three-pointer from Jonathan Powell and two consecutive dunks by Veesaar, pushing their lead to 14-6.
However, Radford fought back, taking a 19-16 lead fueled by a 13-2 run sparked by back-to-back three-pointers from Johnson and Dennis Parker. The Tar Heels faced challenges, especially with Jarin Stevenson sidelined for significant minutes due to an ankle injury, along with Wilson”s foul troubles. The lead exchanged hands multiple times until North Carolina seized control with a decisive 14-3 run, leading 30-22 with just over four minutes left in the half. Stevenson played a key role during this stretch, contributing six points primarily from the free-throw line. Kyan Evans closed the half with a reverse layup and a completed three-point play, extending the Tar Heels” lead to 37-26 with 1:47 remaining.
Second Half Action
In the second half, North Carolina quickly established their rhythm, pulling away from Radford and diminishing any hopes of an upset. After Johnson opened the scoring for Radford, UNC”s Bogavac and Veesaar responded with consecutive three-pointers. Radford countered with Parker hitting another three, but the highlight came when Bogavac delivered a lob to Wilson, who executed a stunning alley-oop dunk, extending North Carolina”s lead to 64-46 with 12:30 left in the game.
The Tar Heels maintained their offensive pressure, ensuring a comfortable victory and showcasing their balanced scoring and resilience in overcoming a challenging start.
