How social media reacted to UNC stomping USC in Michael Malone’s debut

Greensboro is the longtime home of the ACC Basketball Tournament. On Friday night, Greensboro was the site of Michael Malone’s first game as UNC’s head men’s basketball coach.

North Carolina traveled an hour west on I-40, welcoming the USC Trojans for a preseason exhibition. Fans knew the Tar Heels had talent on paper, but had little idea about the on-court product.

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After 40 minutes, UNC proved itself as a deep, balanced team with several players making a measurable impact. North Carolina started the Malone era with a come-from-behind, 88-70 victory.

The Tar Heels traded leads with USC throughout, until their defense abruptly halted any Trojan momentum. UNC held the Trojans to under 27 percent shooting in the second half, while shooting over 53% against their defense. Chapel Hill native Jarin Stevenson was the best player on the court, recording a double-double with 10 rebounds and a career-high 25 points.

Neo Avdalas (15), Isaiah Denis (14) and Maximo Adams (11) joined Stevenson in double-figures, showcasing North Carolina’s variety of offensive weapons. Sayon Keita, whom Malone landed from FC Barcelona, showcased his potential with a second-half steal and dunk. Terrence Brown only made two shots, the second coming via a resounding breakaway slam.

Malone proved a happy camper after the game, even delivering a couple legendary soundbites. The Tar Heels won’t play against until next Sunday, when they travel to Indiana for a clash with the Hoosiers.

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As you debate how good UNC will be this season, take a look at several, postgame social media reactions below.

That first postgame victory walk feeling

Sayon Keita will be GOOD.

Jarin Stevenson is HIM.

Isaiah Denis got MUCH better.

Postgame thoughts!

Theo Pinson is a HAPPY man!

What can UNC work on for next game?

Watching Michael Malone coach is a breath of fresh air.

NCAA Tournament seeding…already?

Exhibitions are…just that?

This article originally appeared on Tar Heels Wire: How social media reacted to UNC…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/social-media-reacted-unc-stomping-123104752.html

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Publish date : 2026-10-10 12:31:00

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