March Madness: 5 keys to a UNC victory over Indiana
Back court matchup
Yogi Ferrell is a fantastic guard who can put up big numbers. Much of the Hoosiers offense goes through Ferrell, especially after the season-ending injury sustained by sophomore guard James Blackmon, Jr.
Ferrell averages 17 points per game, shooting just under 46 percent from the floor and 42 percent from three-point range. He also hits 82.5 percent of his free throws. He’s efficient and clutch.
Marcus Paige is likely to be Ferrell’s primary defender, though the Heels have the bodies to throw multiple guys at him. If Paige can defend Ferrell the way he did Malcolm Brogdon in the ACC Championship game, it’ll cause the Hoosiers serious problems. Paige, at times, can be a lock-down defender. Other times, not so much. A good defensive effort by Paige could go a long way in this matchup.
On the other hand, Ferrell has to defend Paige, too. A month ago, that might have been easier. Over the past few weeks, Paige has begun to find his shooting touch. He’s hit five of his 12 three-point tries in the NCAA Tournament thus far and appears to be surging at the right time. He’s hitting shots and letting the offense come to him.
Far more impressive this season in the Tar Heels back court has been sophomore point guard Joel Berry, II. If Berry continues his high level of play and Paige plays to the level that we’ve seen in recent weeks (and previous seasons), Indiana could have a tough game, especially given the size and talent advantage that UNC holds in the front court.