Volume dominated the first half of UNC’s battle with the UConn Huskies at Storrs Branch in New York City — namely, Connecticut’s innate ability to extend its fingertips and direct loose balls in the wrong direction, thwarting Carolina’s numerous rebound attempts.
Armando Bacot was somewhat confused by the length of the film7’2″ Donovan Clingan, as well as UConn’s host of additional bodies. He got to the line wide (5 of 8), but made several wild shots in the process.
Perhaps, after throwing too many shots skyward and not enough in the general direction of the basket, the big forward let his emotions get the best of him on a bouncing free throw late in the first half.
The backout edge rocker board cut out what it was Just There was a 10-point deficit going back to six…only because of Dan Hurley’s rambling protest to convince the officials to call a technical foul for his gestures. The deficit is back at eight, a lot of good has been undone.
Most of them were Less than thrilled to punish Pakut’s affection.
Armando Bacot’s bouncing free throw stole the momentum again for the Heels…until the refs listened to Dan Hurley and called the technical. The lead has expanded again. pic.twitter.com/T8jBSoBGNG
— Adam Weinrib (@AdamWeinrib) December 6, 2023
UNC Tar Heels Basketball: Harrison Ingram saves Armando Bacot
Or so we thought. Because, after a defensive stand, the Heels received the final shot of the eighth period, and the ball found its way to Stanford transfer Harrison Ingram. He may not be the toughest shooter or toughest player on the roster, but there’s a strong chance he could be UNC’s finest prospect.
In direct opposition to many of his teammates’ previous efforts, Ingram seamlessly found the bottom of the net as the clock ran out on the half up and down.
A 3-pointer by Harrison Ingram with 3.2 seconds left makes it 44-39 UConn at halftime.
– Carolina Basketball Statistics and Information (@UNCMBBStats) December 6, 2023
Carolina trailed by five at halftime, but the road back could have — and should have — been much tougher in the second half against the defending champions. Now, all they need is for one of Ingram’s teammates to step up and put the team’s foot firmly on the gas pedal. Maybe White Plains’ RJ Davis might be interested?
