Lessons Learned from the UNC basketball program's inch-close loss at No. 1 Kansas

Jae'Lyn Withers giveth and taketh away

Seth Trimble's off-season discussion with Danny Green about his experience out of the starting line-up and the success he was able to achieve through perseverance are a huge reason why Trimble is still a Tar Heel. In this regard, Trimble and Green are an interesting comparison.

Another amalgam for Danny Green? Jae'Lyn Withers.

Early models of Danny Green were a point of contention among UNC fans. Some wanted him to start over Marcus Ginyard because of his offensive firepower. Others pointed out that Green was good for at least a couple of bone-headed plays that would make Roy Williams tear off his sportscoat in frustration.

That mantle has been passed to Withers who famously took an ill-advised three in the closing minutes of the Sweet Sixteen loss to Alabama. They continue today with his early and needless fouls away from the basket, and by his backwards pass late in the game that led to a turnover with UNC clinging to an 87-85 lead with three minutes left.

Withers has the height and athleticism that North Carolina needs to compete with a comparative lack of size in their frontcourt. Add an unexpectedly potent three-point shot to the mix, and suddenly you have a player you can lean on... if he makes smart baksetball decisions.

Errors aside, I should note that last season with fellow newcomers Harrison Ingram and Cormac Ryan dominating usage in the starting line-up, Jae'Lyn Withers cut something of a peripheral figure on the team. He was no bystander against Kansas. He stood up to be counted, and his 11 points and 9 rebounds were desperately needed. More of this, please!