Littlejohn Coliseum almost witnessed two major upsets this weekend.
However, the UNC women's basketball program made sure that didn't happen.
In a defensive slugfest, the Tar Heels found a way to get the job done, securing a two-point victory over the Tigers on Sunday afternoon.
Offense was not easy to come by in this one on either side. Combined, the two teams shot 37 of 101 from the floor, including a combined 9 of 38 from three-point range. In fact, it was a 25-22 game at the break, as the offensive struggles were very evident.
Defense was at the forefront, as both teams utilized their defensive attack in order to generate points in anyway possible. A one-point game heading into the final quarter, the guard duo of Grace Townsend and Reniya Kelly took over the game for the team in Carolina Blue.
Townsend scored all eight of her points over the final 10 minutes of action, providing strong minutes while Kelly was on the bench due to foul trouble. With 42 seconds remaining, Kelly connected for a jumper at the free throw line to give the Tar Heels a lead they wouldn't relish.
Kelly led all scorers with 17 points while Maria Gakdeng was the only other Tar Heel in double-figures.
While the end of the game got a bit sloppy, especilly on the Tar Heels final offensive possession (one that was halted due to a backcourt violation that had everyone confused), North Carolina did what it's done all season long- lock in defensively.
After a week off following their West Coast trip, you could tell there was a bit of rust on the Tar Heels in this one. Regardless, they did what good teams do- find ways to win even when you don't put together your best overall outing.
Now, the UNC women's basketball program will return home for two games this week, starting with hosting Virginia Tech on Thursday night at Carmichael Arena.