You just don't see teams shoot 61% against a Roy Williams defense. But Boston College did. The Eagles bring tremendous size and experience that are hard to prepare for. With Craig Smith going 11 of 16 and Jared Dudley hitting 8 of 11, Carolina had a difficult time getting stops. Guard Sean Marshall, who has the body of an NBA guard, hit 5 of 8. But it was a little guy, Tyrese Rice, who made two of the game's biggest plays. With four seconds left in the first half, Rice streaked down the sideline and hit a three pointer that gave BC the halftime lead. Then in the second half when a Carolina rally had brought the Tar Heels to within three, Rice hit a follow shot that loomed large in BC's 85-82 win.
Although North Carolina had issues on the defensive end, the Tar Heels had their chances. Their defensive pressure, while not effective in the shooting area, did lead to 19 BC turnovers. Carolina hit 12 of 27 three point shots and also found its way to 14 second shots. Against a big team like Boston College that's a tall achievement.
Two other bright notes for the Heels. This was the most focused effort of any Roy Williams team in the ACC Tournament. And Carolina gained great experience playing the big, savvy Eagles-experience that should help them against tournament teams in the upcoming NCAA.
-Bob Holliday
