The North Carolina Tar Heels extended their winning streak to four games by defeating California, 79-53, in the first matchup between the two schools since 1998. The Tar Heels’ dominant performance was led by a strong team defense that stifled Cal’s top scorer, Andrej Stojakovic.
Stojakovic, averaging 20.3 points per game, struggled to find his rhythm against the Tar Heels. Seth Trimble, Ian Jackson, and others were assigned to guard him, but it was a team effort that ultimately shut him down. The most notable moment came at halftime when Stojakovic attempted a half-court shot, only to be double teamed by the Tar Heels.
Meanwhile, Elliot Cadeau led the way for the Tar Heels in the first half with 11 points and three rebounds. He helped push the pace and find open shots, which allowed UNC to take an early lead. However, Cadeau’s scoring slowed down in the second half, but his intensity in the first half was key to setting up the Tar Heels’ victory.
Seth Trimble also returned from a two-and-a-half-week absence due to a head injury and seemed back to form. He scored 12 points and recorded six defensive boards, including shutting down Stojakovic and recording three steals.
Coach Hubert Davis praised his team’s defense, saying it was great to see them play like that for an entire game. The Tar Heels now have a chance to complete their sweep of ACC newcomers when they host Stanford on Saturday afternoon.
Source: https://www.newsobserver.com/sports/college/acc/unc/article298534068.html