Wed Nov 27 05:10:00 UTC 2024: **UNC Tar Heels Edge Hawaii, But Rebounding Concerns Loom Large Ahead of Maui Invitational**
HONOLULU, HI – The 10th-ranked North Carolina Tar Heels opened their Hawaii trip with an 87-69 victory over the Rainbow Warriors, but significant concerns remain as they head to the Maui Invitational. While the Tar Heel guard trio of RJ Davis (18 points), Elliot Cadeau (17 points), and Seth Trimble (13 points) combined for 48 points, UNC’s performance on the boards and in the post leaves much to be desired.
Hawaii dominated the rebounding battle, outrebounding UNC 40-27 and securing 15 offensive rebounds, leading to a 14-5 advantage in second-chance points. The Rainbow Warriors also outscored UNC 20-18 in the paint. This rebounding disparity, particularly the 10 offensive rebounds allowed in the first half alone, is a major area of concern for coach Hubert Davis as the Tar Heels prepare for a challenging Maui Invitational field.
Despite the rebounding woes, UNC showed offensive firepower, scoring 19 fast-break points and displaying improved free-throw shooting (26-for-34). Davis, after a slow start to the season, showed improved efficiency, while Cadeau and Trimble provided crucial contributions in transition.
The Tar Heels face a daunting task in Maui, with a field including several top-five teams, including reigning national champion UConn. Their first test comes against undefeated Dayton on Monday. Addressing their rebounding and post defense deficiencies will be crucial if UNC hopes to make a deep run in the tournament.
First Piper 