UNC’s loss to Clemson marks its fifth in seven ACC road games, as the Tar Heels struggled against the third-ranked Tigers. Viktor Lakhin led the way for Clemson with 22 points and 19 from Chase Hunter, as the Tigers’ hot streak continued with an eighth win in their last nine games.
The Tar Heels attempted to slow down Lakhin, but he dominated with 20 points in the first half alone, grabbing six rebounds along the way. Despite a strong performance from RJ Davis with 18 points, UNC was unable to keep pace, shooting just 45.2% from the field and hitting only four of 19 three-pointers.
The loss further jeopardizes UNC’s NCAA tournament chances, which now stand at 1-10 in Quad 1 games according to the NET ratings. The Tar Heels have a crucial stretch ahead with upcoming games against Syracuse, N.C. State, and Virginia, all teams below .500 in league play. A win over Duke on March 8 may be their last chance for a Quad 1 victory.
Here are three key takeaways from UNC’s loss:
* Ian Jackson’s new role as a reserve was put to the test, but he struggled with scoreless performances in his last two games.
* Lakhin continued his strong form, matching his previous game’s output and dominating on the glass.
* The loss has put UNC’s NCAA tournament hopes in jeopardy, leaving them with a crucial stretch ahead that may determine their season.
Source: https://www.newsobserver.com/sports/college/acc/unc/article300010849.html