The score through 20 minutes will be a key indicator of North Carolina's potential to move on, as the Tar Heels have won all 18 games this season when leading at halftime while losing nine of the 12 games in which they've trailed at the break. If Marquette can jump in front early, this game could live up to its 9-vs-8 billing. Prediction: Marquette 74, UNC 71 (Athlon Sports) UNC Men's Basketball Opens NCAA Tournament Play vs. Marquette Thursday - Pregame Notes
North Carolina is the No. 8 seed in the East Region and plays No.