UNC Basketball: Random Observations Versus Portland

UNC Basketball defeated Portland in the first round of the PK85 event by a final score of 89-81. The game was much closer than the final score would indicate.

In a game where the UNC basketball program would need all of Caleb Love’s 23 points, one of the most special baskets was the one that pushed him over 1000 career points at North Carolina. Love entered the game needing just three points to reach 1000. He now has 1020 career points. He is off to a strong start to the season so that number is sure to continue to grow.

One clear area of growth for Love over the summer is his shot selection. He is one of those players that, when they get hot, you almost don’t mind the occasional “heat check” shot. This season Love is choosing his spots. He is not forcing the game. He is letting it come to him.

During halftime, I sent a message to a Tar Heel group chat that I am a part of. It simply said, “is it time to be concerned about this team?” That ranking number beside the team seems to bring with it a level of expectation. Maybe too much or maybe not enough. I am still trying to figure that out.

A team that returned 4 starters, has a much deeper bench, and added a fifth-year transfer in Pete Nance seems to be underwhelming considering the competition so far. Yes, they are 5-0 but I think many of us are still waiting on that 2009-like domination from beginning to end. At this point, there is just enough to win.

You hate to complain when you’re still ranked number one and 5-0.

Bacot still doesn’t seem to have found his 2022-2023 season footing yet. Yes, he’s had double-doubles. Yes, he has had some strong-scoring games. Within the game though, he seems to not be the force that he was last season. I do think that will click in again. I hope it does.

The first rotations today were Puff Johnson and Seth Tremble. Tyler Nickel also saw some action in the second half.

Down the stretch the “Iron 4” plus Nance we in for to close it out. It will be interesting to see how this changes as Coach Davis and the players start to identify their roles.

The Tar Heels now face the winner of the Iowa State-Villanova game.

Follow us @KeepingItHeel on Twitter and like our fan page on Facebook for continued coverage of UNC basketball news, views, and updates.