UNC basketball is getting pretty good at finishing games that are close late, much to the detriment of their fans’ blood pressure. The Tar Heels pulled away slightly at the very end of what had been a very close game with free throws down the stretch to win 81-75. Much of their success came from the fact that they absolutely owned the offensive glass, besting Syracuse 24-4 in second chance points.
Garrison Brooks returned to the starting lineup and made his presence felt immediately. The senior posted a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds while going a perfect 6-6 from the free throw line.