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last mo.

UNC's March Madness Hopes Fade After ACC Semifinal Loss to Duke

North Carolina's 74-71 defeat, marked by a critical lane violation, leaves their NCAA Tournament bid uncertain as Selection Sunday looms.

North Carolina Tar Heels guard Seth Trimble (7) reacts to a missed opportunity later during the second half against the Duke Blue Devils at Spectrum Center.
Terrence Edwards Jr. #5 of the Louisville Cardinals dribbles during the game against Maliq Brown #6 of the Duke Blue Devils at KFC YUM! Center on December 8, 2024 in Louisville, Kentucky.
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Overview

  • UNC's loss to Duke in the ACC semifinal, despite a strong second-half rally, significantly weakens their case for an NCAA Tournament spot.
  • The Tar Heels' 1-12 Quad 1 record and #36 NET ranking place them on the bubble, with experts doubting their inclusion in the 68-team field.
  • Head coach Hubert Davis faces mounting pressure after a second potential NCAA Tournament miss in three years, despite a recent contract extension.
  • A late-game lane violation by Jae'Lyn Withers and earlier missed opportunities were pivotal in UNC's narrow defeat against the top-ranked Blue Devils.
  • Selection Committee chair and UNC athletic director Bubba Cunningham's role offers a slim chance of influencing the Tar Heels' fate on Selection Sunday.