Hubert Davis UNC basketball huddle and changes for the Tar Heels

UNC basketball secures first road win against top-25 opponent since 2022, defeating No. 16 Clemson, 65-55. Coach Hubert Davis discusses team's success.

UNC basketball secured a 65-55 victory over No. 16 Clemson, marking the program's first road win against a top-25 opponent since 2022. Following consecutive losses to UConn and Kentucky, the eighth-ranked Tar Heels have now won four games in a row. With their triumph over the 16th-ranked Tigers, UNC has achieved a 3-0 record in conference play for the first time since the 2015-16 season. Furthermore, for the first time since the 2014-15 season, UNC has allowed fewer than 60 points in back-to-back road games. The Tar Heels have exhibited significant improvements on the defensive end and with rebounding.

Coach Hubert Davis shared insights into the change in the timeout huddles for UNC basketball this season. He emphasized that he is now listening more and speaking less in the huddles, allowing the players to lead the conversation. Davis expressed his delight in witnessing the players referencing practice situations and engaging in meaningful dialogue during the huddles. The players, including Cormac Ryan, Harrison Ingram, RJ Davis, Armando Bacot, and Seth Trimble, have actively contributed to the discussions, fostering a sense of unity and confidence within the team. Bacot, who delivered an impressive performance with 14 points and 16 rebounds, highlighted the infectious nature of communication and its positive impact on the team's confidence.

Paxson Wojcik, a transfer from Brown, emphasized the collective effort and passion displayed by the players during the timeout huddles. He credited Coach Davis for igniting the team's passion and ensuring that all players, whether on the court or on the bench, are fully engaged and contributing to the dialogue. Wojcik also acknowledged the freedom given by the coaches, allowing the team to be player-led. Senior guard RJ Davis echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that everyone in the team has embraced leadership in their own unique ways, contributing to the team's cohesion and success.

In the final minutes of the game against Clemson, UNC displayed resilience and composure, closing the game on a 10-2 run and preventing Clemson from scoring in the final five minutes. The players attributed their ability to finish strong to the rigorous preparation and practice drills that simulate high-pressure game situations. Wojcik highlighted the team's practice routine of ending each session with a 3-minute game, emphasizing the significance of winning those crucial moments. Bacot underscored the team's dedication to embracing challenging situations in practice, which ultimately translated to their ability to perform under pressure during the game.

UNC's preparation and resilience were evident in the final minutes, with Bacot and Davis leading the charge and securing the victory. RJ Davis emphasized the coaching staff's role in preparing the team for such critical moments, enabling them to face adversity and excel in closing out games effectively. The team's collective efforts, leadership, and preparation culminated in a well-deserved victory over Clemson.

For any inquiries, please contact staff writer Rodd Baxley at [email protected] or @RoddBaxley on Twitter.