Tar Heels Dominate Central Arkansas in Season Opener, Showcase Depth and Dynamic Play
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. – The University of North Carolina men’s basketball team kicked off their 2023-24 season with a resounding victory over Central Arkansas on Monday night, defeating the Bears 86-72. The game, the first-ever meeting between the two programs, highlighted the Tar Heels’ impressive depth, unselfish play, and exciting transition offense.
The victory wasn’t just a win on the court, but a showcase of several noteworthy performances and connections. Forward Armando Bacot led the way with a dominant performance,while freshman Elliot Cadeau orchestrated the offense effectively,dishing out eight assists. A highlight-reel play involved Jaydon Young’s long pass to Seth Trimble, who saved the ball on the baseline with a behind-the-back pass to harrison Wilson for a dunk - a play instantly earmarked for the season highlight reel. UNC finished the night with 23 assists on 33 field goals, demonstrating a commitment to team basketball.
Several Tar heels contributed to the dominant performance. Veesaar collected his first career double-double, totaling ten rebounds – a personal best including his time at Arizona. Carolina’s interior dominance was also on full display, outscoring Central Arkansas 46-20 in the paint and securing a 44-30 rebounding advantage. Even backup center Zayden High contributed with a pair of assists, exemplifying the team’s all-around passing ability.
The game also revealed a surprising connection between the two programs.Central Arkansas head coach John Shulman previously served as an assistant coach alongside UNC assistant jeff Lebo at both Tennessee Tech and Chattanooga, and together at East Tennessee. Central Arkansas is also notably the alma mater of NBA legend Scottie pippen.
Beyond the on-court action, the broadcast offered new insights. A new feature on Tar Heel Sports Network radio broadcasts included a halftime interview with an assistant coach, with Jeff Lebo providing analysis on Carolina’s transition play, the impact of freshman Bogavac’s passing, and the prospect for deeper bench players to gain experience with a pleasant lead. Longtime ACC official Les Jones also worked the game, marking his first Tar Heel assignment since February 2018.
Notably, Monday’s game was the first for the Tar heels without RJ Davis in the box score since March 11, 2020.
The Tar Heels now turn their attention to a critically important challenge: a Friday night matchup against the University of Kansas.
