Previewing Round 1 of the UNC Basketball program's 2023-2024 rivalry series vs. Duke

Key to Victory for North Carolina

Especially playing on their home floor, the UNC basketball program must gain some early momentum, and they can do that by successfully operating in transition.

When the Tar Heels are out and running, they are much harder to stop, as the offense is much more effective when they move quickly down the floor.

Of course, the Tar Heels will need to avoid turning the basketball over, as turnovers have been a bit of an issue as of late. Getting out in transition may also benefit the team's shooters, as it can't afford the likes of Harrison Ingram and Cormac Ryan to struggle shooting the ball like they did against Georgia Tech.

Playing strong defense and capitalizing in transition will be crucial for the UNC basketball program as they look to defend their home court on Saturday night.