Off the cuff: At first glance, this Tar Heels team is hard to figure. They look a bit ragged in losing three straight and then they come back to win four straight, including three in a five-day period. Two of those game were emotional wins against rivals. But maybe, in part, it's a natural progression for a team that is still jelling. In addition to three freshmen getting key playing time, the Tar Heels added a transfer that started the season injured. "Cam (Johnson) is comfortable with us now," Theo Pinson said about the Pitt transfer. "Our lineup in meshing." They have always been able to score but the points seem to be coming easier now. And while the defense around the perimeter has frustrated UNC coach Roy Williams, and while defensive lapses around the free throw line have led to open dunks and layups, the defense has improved during the four-game winning streak. "Their defense on our guards was the big difference in the game," Notre Dame coach Mike Brey said. Carolina can score quickly and in batches but the shots aren't always going to fall. If the Heels can continue to improve on defense, though, they'll be able to play with anybody in the ACC and NCAA tournaments. That's a big "if" and depends on whether this is just a good run or a long-lasting trend. |
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