While there's a ton of focus already on next weekend's Duke vs. North Carolina showdown to close out the regular season, there are still two more games on the way beforehand. This includes Saturday night's meeting with Virginia Tech at the Smith Center.
UNC fans who want Hubert Davis fired were just hit with a sobering reality
While Virginia Tech is 18-10 on the year, this still won't be a cruise control-type of game for the Heels. Everyone will need to be at their best, including Zayden High, who has seen his playing time increase in recent weeks.
Luckily for High, another strong showing could be on the way for him. When it comes to defense down low, Virginia Tech struggles there - in the last five games, opponents are scoring more than 50 percent of their points from inside of the paint. This is where High has been spot on for UNC, as his 28 percent field-goal rate from the paint leads the Heels, with 44 percent of his attempts coming at the rim.
Zayden High continues to be a difference-maker for UNC and Hubert Davis
Yes, High's season averages won't impress anyone, with him recording 3.0 points, 2.7 rebounds and 0.5 assists per contest. However, he's scored in double figures in two of the last four games, with a career-high 15 points vs. Pitt and 13 more against NC State.
Despite Henri Veesaar getting back on the floor vs. Syracuse, High was still able to score nine points. In the win over Louisville, he was back to more of a reserve role, finishing with four points. Still, High has proven that he can deliver for Davis and his staff when his number is called.
No one is expecting High to score 20 points vs. the Hokies or take home ACC Player of the Week honors. With that said, High continues to be a strong, blue-collar worker for the Heels and he plays the game with passion and fire. More of the same will be showcased vs. Virginia Tech, with High surely ready to get to work near the glass.