Starting line-up tinkering not over
Drake Powell cracked the starting line-up against Alabama. Vanderbilt transfer Ven-Allen Lubin (VAL) was the next Tar Heel to get promoted, this time at the expense of junior Jalen Washington, who scored just five points in UNC's last three games.
Hubert Davis may be even more perplexed at how to set up his frontcourt after the Georgia Tech game than after the Alabama loss. VAL only played 16 minutes compared to Washington's 20. The difference was only offset by Lubin's foul trouble (he eventually fouled out on the softest call on the perimeter you'll likely seen called all season) and Washington's time off the court after rolling his ankle.
Coach Davis didn't get any production from his post players in the first half, and in the second half, Washington had one dunk for two points, Lubin had five points, and Jae'Lyn Withers had two pity points from a Cadeau pass on a UNC fast break.
I probably need this phrase turned into a stamp for Christmas, but let me say it again. North Carolina needs more production from the front court, or this season is doomed.