Sat Mar 22 18:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Ole Miss Sends North Carolina Packing in NCAA Tournament Opener

**Milwaukee, WI –** A strong second-half comeback proved insufficient for the North Carolina Tar Heels, as they fell to Ole Miss 71-64 in the first round of the NCAA men’s basketball tournament Friday. The loss marks a disappointing end to a season plagued by inconsistency for the Tar Heels, who entered the tournament as a controversial last-minute selection.

North Carolina struggled mightily in the first half, trailing by as many as 22 points. Coach Hubert Davis cited a lack of energy and passion, describing the team’s performance as reminiscent of their struggles earlier in the season. Ole Miss dominated in every facet of the game, outrebounding the Tar Heels and hitting crucial three-pointers. The Rebels’ Sean Pedulla sealed the victory with a late three-pointer.

Despite a spirited second-half rally that saw them cut the deficit to just two points in the final minute, North Carolina couldn’t overcome their early deficit. The team’s inconsistent performance throughout the season, highlighted by a 1-12 record against top-tier opponents, ultimately proved to be their downfall.

Emotional North Carolina guard Seth Trimble expressed frustration and sadness, acknowledging the team’s lack of energy and the end of his and teammate RJ Davis’ collegiate careers. Davis echoed the sentiment, stating that the game mirrored the team’s up-and-down season.

While Coach Davis praised his team’s second-half fight, he acknowledged that the first half displayed the inconsistencies that plagued them for much of the year. The team’s failure to maintain the improved form they exhibited in recent weeks marked a disappointing end to their tournament run. Ole Miss advances to the next round.

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