With the emergence of superstar freshman Caleb Wilson, who is hoarding most of the media attention when it comes to the UNC basketball program so far this season, another highly recruited freshman may be finding his groove as well.
Derek Dixon, the former four-star recruit in the first two games of the season, came into the game to handle the ball in place of starting point guard Kyan Evans. Since the injury to Seth Trimble, his minutes have increased significantly from 8 to 10 minutes previously to now 16-18 over the last three games.
His production has spiked as he has begun to show signs of why he was highly recruited, thanks to Hubert Davis allowing him to play a role he is more comfortable with: off the ball, alongside starting point guard Kyan Evans. The first time the two guards were on the floor together was against NC Central, where Evans was able to successfully set up Dixon in the right corner for two spot-up threes. Dixon was recruited for his ability to shoot the ball, and playing off-ball has allowed him to do what he does best.
This allows the UNC basketball program more playmaking on the offensive end with two primary ball handlers who can create for not only themselves, but also for others. This allows Kyan Evans to play a role he is also familiar with, as he was the off guard to Nique Clifford during his time at Colorado State. Last season, Evans shot 40% on catch-and-shoot opportunities and is shooting 32% from the field on threes so far this season.
This lineup is worth experimenting with further, given UNC's recent turnover problem. Dixon has shown poise as a floor leader, with steady handling and precise vision. You can see game to game that Dixon is getting a better understanding of reading defenses and using ball screens, as this is one of the few times in his career he has been asked to play the one. Unlocking the young man's offensive capabilities, especially his long-range marksmanship, will give Hubert Davis even more options later in the season.
When a team loses its leader, it sometimes loses its identity as it searches for a replacement. Asking a freshman to take on a larger role could be beneficial or catastrophic to their development. Dixon has shown maturity and an ability to adapt on the fly. Having a strong relationship with both Trimble and Evans has allowed him to have a guide through his first season and also learn valuable college experience. Even though Trimble can't be on the floor with him, there's no doubt that the Tar Heels' senior captain is helping him every day in practice, and the chemistry between him and Evans will only continue to grow the more time they spend on the floor together.