UPDATE: In a stunning turnaround, the University of North Carolina (UNC) defeated the University of Kansas 87-74 in an exhilarating game on November 10, 2023, in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. This victory marks a significant statement for UNC as they bounce back from a troubled past season, validating head coach Hubert Davis’s roster changes.
After trailing by 10 points in the first half and entering halftime down 37-29, the 25th-ranked Tar Heels exploded in the second half, scoring an impressive 58 points. They shot an astonishing 66.7% (24-of-36) from the field, leaving the 19th-ranked Jayhawks reeling. UNC’s quick surge out of halftime, making 18 of their first 23 shots, changed the momentum entirely.
This game was not just about the score. It was an emotional boost for a team that had suffered eight losses in nine games against AP Top 25 teams last season. “It validates [Davis’] thoughts and vision,” said senior guard Seth Trimble, who scored 17 points, with 13 coming in the second half. “It takes some early stress off of him, getting a big win like that.”
Fans played a crucial role in this victory, participating in a whiteout event that energized the Smith Center, largely inspired by star freshman Caleb Wilson. Wilson led the Tar Heels with 24 points, seven rebounds, and four steals, showcasing his talent and determination. “I want to impress my coach, I want to impress the world,” Wilson stated after the game, as the crowd erupted in cheers.
Transfer big man Henri Veesaar, formerly of Arizona, added another 20 points, proving to be a dominant force against Kansas’ defense. His dunks ignited the crowd and set the tone for UNC’s second-half revival. The team’s transformation under Davis was evident in their aggressive play and cohesive teamwork.
“I wanted this new team to have evidence of what it’s like to play in a game like this in the Smith Center, and to come up big,” Davis said. “I just wanted them to have a taste of what it’s like to be here.”
Defensively, Trimble took on the challenge of guarding Kansas star freshman Darryn Peterson, who scored 22 points but was held in check during critical moments. “The way that [Trimble] guarded Darryn was terrific,” praised Kansas coach Bill Self. “Caleb was the best player probably in the game. But you can make a strong case for Henri and for Seth, too.”
This victory is particularly noteworthy as it breaks a long-standing losing streak against Kansas, which had dominated the rivalry in recent years, including five consecutive wins. The last time UNC triumphed over Kansas was in November 2002, a significant historical moment for both programs.
As the Tar Heels celebrate this pivotal win, they look forward to building momentum for the rest of the season. The team’s confidence is soaring, and fans are optimistic about what’s to come. Davis concluded, “I won’t remember the score, but I’ll remember them jumping around in the locker room. I’ll remember the smiles on their faces.”
This game signals a promising new chapter for UNC basketball, leaving fans eager for what lies ahead.