Carolina and NC State Set to Battle at the Dean E. Smith Center
In a historic matchup between two North Carolina rivals, the Tar Heels of Carolina face off against the Wolfpack of NC State for the 249th time overall and the 39th time at the iconic Dean E. Smith Center on Wednesday, February 19. With both teams coming off weekend victories, the stage is set for an exciting clash televised by ESPN.
The Tar Heels, with a 15-11 record and 8-6 in ACC play, will host the 10-15 Wolfpack, who are 3-11 in conference action. Carolina is riding the momentum of a hard-fought 88-82 victory over Syracuse, while NC State snapped a nine-game losing streak with a 70-62 win against Boston College in Raleigh.
Carolina’s recent performances have seen them secure wins in two of their last three games, including a nail-biting 67-66 victory over Pitt. The Tar Heels boast a strong home record, going 9-2 at the Dean E. Smith Center this season, with notable losses to Alabama and Stanford. On the other hand, the Wolfpack has struggled on the road, enduring a winless streak in seven away games, six of which were ACC contests.
Ian Jackson shone for UNC in the win against Syracuse, leading the team with 23 points, while Jae’Lyn Withers recorded his highest scoring performance as a Tar Heel with 19 points. The team collectively tied their season-high of 13 three-pointers, showcasing their offensive firepower.
Looking ahead to the match against NC State, Carolina holds a dominant historical record, boasting a 167-81 advantage in the series, including an 82-23 record in Chapel Hill. The Tar Heels have also been formidable at the Dean E. Smith Center, winning 31 of the 38 matchups against the Wolfpack on their home court.
RJ Davis has been a standout performer for Carolina against NC State in recent years, averaging 14.8 points in 10 games against the Wolfpack. His memorable 26-point performance in the Smith Center in the 2022-23 season highlights his scoring prowess in this rivalry.
The Tar Heels have displayed resilience in close games this season, with a significant number of nail-biting finishes that have tested their mettle. Their ability to excel under pressure and secure crucial wins in tight contests showcases their determination and fighting spirit on the court.
As the Tar Heels gear up for another intense battle against NC State, the expectations are high for a thrilling showdown between these storied programs. With both teams hungry for victory, fans can expect a competitive and exciting matchup that epitomizes the fierce rivalry between these two North Carolina powerhouses.