Off the cuff: It was one of those games that you just knew Carolina would end up winning comfortably but it wasn't pretty getting there. If Gardner-Webb had hit a few more open shots, it could have gone down to the wire. Despite all the injuries and playing just seven guys regularly, Carolina was the bigger, stronger, more talented team. But there are some troubling signs. For instance, Carolina turned the ball over 16 times compared to 13 for Gardner-Webb. Also, Anthony and Keeling had four fouls each while Brooks had three. If Anthony fouls out or has an off night, Carolina could be in trouble against even average teams. Once Brandon Robinson and Sterling Manley come back perhaps the concerns won't be as great. It was good to see Shea Rush drill a three-pointer in the last minute. I still don't like how Carolina dribbles the clock out at the end - this time done by seldom-used K.J. Smith. Robbie O'Han, a walk-on who has not scored, was calling for the ball with 10 seconds left but rather than giving him a shot, the Heels just dribbled out the clock. I understand dribbling out the clock when the starters are on the court but not the Blue Team. Let them play until the clock expires. |
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