Lessons Learned from UNC basketball's loss to Alabama in the ACC/SEC Challenge

A big step forward for the freshmen

Two losses in Maui and three games that featured double-digit deficits compelled Hubert Davis to make a change to the starting line-up. Jae'Lyn Withers made way for freshman Drake Powell who has revealed himself as something of a defensive menace.

Powell was active in traps, grabbing two steals. He was efficient, but maybe could have looked to score more, shooting 3/5 for six points.

His freshman partner Ian Jackson was a whole 'nother animal. The electric guard scored a career high 23 points on 10/17 shooting (3/5 from three). Jackson was especially useful in transition, where he used his speed to get to the rim:

Drake Powell got into the starting line-up before Ian Jackson because of his size and defense. Even if Jackson continues his upward trajectory on offense, it may be a bridge too far wedging him into the starting line-up. At 6-foot-4, Jackson standing shoulder to shoulder with RJ, Elliot, and Seth would make UNC more likely to face off with the Ladybugs than an NCAA team.

North Carolina needs size desperately. Do you hear that AJ Dybantsa?