With the game on the line with less than 90 seconds to go, the UNC basketball program had options to go to in an effort to score some much-needed points.
North Carolina could've gone into the post, an area that Henri Veesaar dominated for most of the night, or could have given freshman Caleb Wilson a crack at making a key play.
It did come down to a freshman being called upon to be the hero, except it wasn't the one we were all expecting it to be!
Derek Dixon was the hero for North Carolina as they escaped Lexington with a nail-biting victory over No. 18-ranked Kentucky. The freshman guard scored consecutive baskets down the stretch, a step-back three-pointer to give the UNC basketball program the lead and a drive-in layup that ultimately sealed the deal.
The spotlight isn't too bright for Dixon
Shortly after the final buzzer sounded, Dixon was interviewed by the ESPN crew. While discussing his late-game heroics, Dixon provided a quote that UNC fans will love, showing the confidence and maturity this young point guard already has in his arsenal.
"My teammates trusted me, my coaches trusted me, and I just stayed confident throughout the game and made big plays down the stretch."
When you're able to build the trust of your teammates and coaches, especially as a true freshman, you must be doing something right!
Hubert Davis made the right call
With Kyan Evans struggling once again, Hubert Davis went to his freshman backup point guard early and often in this game. From there, Dixon earned his playing time, proving that the Tar Heels needed him on the court as much as possible.
After what we just saw during the final 90 seconds of play, Davis looks like an absolute genius for sticking with Dixon. He repaid his coach by capitalizing on the opportunity, proving that he is more than ready to take on an even bigger role on this year's team.