North Carolina edged Boston College 102-96 in overtime, breaking a two-game losing streak at the Smith Center. A 6-0 run in the final 2:10 of OT sealed the victory as the Tar Heels clamped down defensively in crunch time. Despite BC’s season-high 14 three-pointers, UNC’s resilience in the closing moments propelled them to the win. Seth Trimble’s clutch performance in the final seconds of regulation, along with RJ Davis’s seven OT points, highlighted the Tar Heels’ tenacity.
UNC’s defensive focus emerged at pivotal moments, particularly during the final 18.6 seconds of regulation and throughout overtime. Coach Hubert Davis praised the team’s effort, emphasizing the crucial stops and deflections that turned the tide. Trimble and Davis combined for vital contributions, with Davis finishing as the team’s leading scorer, tallying 22 points, and shooting a flawless 8-for-8 from the free-throw line. Their performances under pressure underscored the team’s determination to defend their home court.
Trimble’s Double-Double Leads Tar Heels’ Charge
Seth Trimble recorded his second career double-double, amassing 18 points and a career-high 12 rebounds in 43 minutes. His late-game heroics, including key free throws and a game-tying layup, exemplified his leadership. Trimble highlighted the team’s collective mindset, noting their commitment to winning in overtime and protecting their home record. His gritty effort, combined with strong play in the paint, proved instrumental in UNC’s victory.
Ian Jackson rebounded from recent shooting struggles, contributing 19 points, including 15 in the second half, and hitting 2-of-3 from beyond the arc. Meanwhile, Jalen Washington matched his career-high with 18 points, scoring 12 in the first half and finishing with six rebounds and three assists. Their contributions fueled a season-high 58 points in the paint, showcasing UNC’s ability to dominate inside despite BC’s sharp three-point shooting.
BC’s offensive performance was impressive, shooting 55.9% in regulation and hitting a season-best 14 three-pointers at a 58.3% clip. The Eagles’ consistent scoring, led by Donald Hand Jr.’s 26 points and Dion Brown’s 20, kept them competitive throughout. Despite trailing in the first half, BC rallied to take multiple leads in the second half, testing UNC’s resolve until the final buzzer.
Overtime Drama Highlights Tar Heels’ Determination
The overtime period showcased UNC’s resilience and execution. RJ Davis scored seven of the team’s 13 points in OT, including a critical three-pointer and clutch free throws. Jalen Washington briefly exited with an injury but remained a key figure in the game. The Tar Heels outlasted the Eagles, whose scoring slowed in the final minutes as Chad Venning fouled out. UNC’s defensive stops and efficient scoring secured the hard-fought victory.
With the win, UNC improved to 13-8 overall and 6-3 in the ACC. The Tar Heels aim to build on this momentum with upcoming road games against Pitt and Duke. Coach Davis and the team will look to maintain their defensive intensity and offensive efficiency to continue climbing the conference standings. The triumph over Boston College serves as a testament to their ability to respond under pressure and find ways to win close games.
